Why did you study human geography?
I initially enrolled because I was interested in studying urban planning, but then I discovered a rich and interdisciplinary field with plenty of learning and research opportunities. I was exposed to different areas of expertise and ways of thinking and researching, which I believe to have been very important to my academic development. Thanks to that, I moved beyond my initial interest in urban planning and found my passion in politics and development.
Why did you apply for this particular MA programme?
I chose this MA program because of the opportunities and flexibility that it offered. Not only being able to study in one of the most livable cities in Europe, but also opportunities to go abroad on exchange and on fieldwork. During my second year, I was able to participate on a semester exchange at the Australian National University, where I was able to take courses directly relevant to my MA thesis. Additionally, I received a fieldwork grant from the department of Human Geography and Sociology, which enabled me to travel to Indonesia and conduct interviews for my thesis. Now that I’ve ended my journey at the University of Oslo, I can say that one of the things I’m happiest about is the accessibility of the professors within the department. Many of them have an open-door policy, which creates a great opportunity to stop by their offices for a casual chat, engage in discussions, or seek guidance whenever needed.
What is the best thing about being an international master's student at the University of Oslo?
Oslo is a great city to live in. It strikes the perfect balance, offering endless activities without ever becoming too crowded or overwhelming. The University is a great place for international students, with a mixture of cultures and tons of exciting activities. Language has never been an issue, as most Norwegians are accustomed to English. Moreover, UiO offers free Norwegian courses to international students, which is a great way to feel even more integrated in society. It is true that Oslo is an expensive city to live in, but thankfully students get good discounts on day-to-day services like public transport and training centers and are able to apply for student housing, which is usually more affordable than living in a collective. Moreover, finding a part-time job to combine with your studies will be fairly easy.