Hello Ellinor Fast, welcome to the Alumni Network. You are member number 50,000! How does that feel?
It feels good. It was unexpected to have it acknowledged, but it adds a bit of a festive touch. It’s fun to maybe be able to encourage others to complete their degrees and join the Alumni Network.
What did you study and what year did you graduate?
I studied Industrial Design and completed my degree this year, 2025.
How old are you?
I’m 29.
Where do you live, in a house or an apartment, and do you have a family or perhaps a pet?
I live in an apartment by Folkets Park in Malmö, with my boyfriend.
What do you do for work today, and how did you end up there?
Today I work in packaging development at Tetra Pak, a job I really enjoy. It’s been a bit of a journey getting here as I started working before finishing my degree. For four years, I worked as a consultant on various design and construction assignments, before landing a permanent position at my current job a year ago. Being a consultant was very educational and interesting, but I’m happy to have found a job in a field where I want to stay and grow.
How has your education influenced your career path?
My education has influenced my career path positively, though it has also been challenging. I’ve focused on design within large-scale industrial production, both out of personal interest and due to opportunities in the job market. Having a design background has sometimes been an advantage, as engineering-heavy industries often need support in design and user adaptation. But it has also sometimes been a disadvantage, as design skills can be hard to adapt and justify in certain contexts. I’ve enjoyed the challenge; it’s fun to be pushed to grow. I always have a design-based way of thinking at the core, but my skills have to be adjusted, broadened and shaped depending on the problems I face.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
“Enjoy” might be a strong word, but one of my main hobbies right now is trying to keep my chili plant alive – surprisingly difficult!
What’s your favourite place in Lund?
I don’t actually spend much time in Lund outside of work hours, but I’ve recently developed an appreciation for Sankt Lars Park. It’s been lovely to walk there this spring. The restaurant Mui Gong on Kyrkogatan also holds a special place in my heart. Fish with Pickled Cabbage and a beer is the perfect dinner to catch up with a friend over.
What do you hope the Alumni Network can offer you?
Career inspiration that’s not directly related to my current job. There are so many people out there with so many different kinds of expertise. And maybe a nostalgic reminder of my student days in Lund.
What are you doing this summer?
I’ll be reading romantic “girl fantasy” novels on a beach in Italy.
Oh, that sounds wonderful!
We wish you, and all the other 49,999 alumni a very lovely summer!
Thanks 🙂