From Boston to Gothenburg: Amy’s Journey in Learning & Development
- Anh
- Oct 14
- 2 min read
“Stay connected to the GU community. It’s your strongest asset.”
This is one of the many insights Amy shared during our conversation – a journey that happens through continents, industries, and a deep commitment to lifelong learning.
Amy’s path into the IT & Learning Master’s program at the University of Gothenburg wasn’t a typical one. With a first Master’s degree in Behavioral Science and years of experience in corporate training across the U.S. and Sweden, she came to the program with a clear goal: to deepen her understanding of adult learning theories and apply them meaningfully in professional contexts.
A Thesis Rooted in Industry
Her thesis explored the role of social influencers in training maritime personnel—a topic inspired by her advisor Charlotte Selberg and her interest in technical training within the shipping industry. Despite personal challenges during her studies, including the loss of her father, Amy persevered and completed her thesis in October, during the height of the pandemic.
Learning Through Experience
Amy’s background includes roles as a job coach at Harvard University, an educational learning partner in corporate training at AstraZeneca, and at the U.S. startup Founder Institute, where she led training sessions, recruited founders, and managed volunteers. Her internship in digital transformation in retail, completed before starting the program, added another layer to her already rich portfolio.
What stood out most from the Master’s program? “The theories,” she said. “In my role at SKF, I prefaced the training program with adult education theories, and it made a strong impression on leadership.”
Designing Learning with Purpose
At SKF, Amy worked in the People Experience department, managing training projects on psychological safety and diversity, equity, and inclusion. She researched vendors globally, conducted interviews, and used AI tools like Copilot to design role plays and scenarios—gaining hands-on experience in building training programs with emerging technologies.
Her three most critical hard skills?
AI integration in training design.
Research and vendor evaluation.
Project management and stakeholder communication.
Advice for Future Alumni
Amy’s advice for students and graduates is clear and heartfelt:
Capture your work in real time to build a strong portfolio.
Stay in touch with classmates and professors.
Use the GU alumni network because many are open to networking and mentorship.
For those applying to the program, she encourages staying involved with the GU community, contributing to alumni groups, and leveraging the international ecosystem in Gothenburg. Looking ahead, Amy continues to explore new opportunities and remains active in the field. Her story is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the power of community.
Note from the Editor: Amy’s story reminds us that learning doesn’t stop with a degree... it evolves through every project, partnership, and challenge. By weaving together theory, technology, and empathy, she continues to shape how organizations learn and grow in a changing world.
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