- Why do you study social anthropology?
I study anthropology because I have always felt the need to learn more about intercultural dialogues. Today we live in a globalized multicultural society where not only knowledge, but a certain sensitivity is necessary to understand it. How did today’s modern multicultural society form and what structures shape the relations between people from diverse backgrounds? These are some of the questions that motivate me to study anthropology, and I believe that through ethnography it is possible to better understand these dynamics and perhaps contribute to creating a more equitable society.
- Why did you apply for this particular MA programme?
I chose the Master programme in Anthropology at the University of Oslo because it gave me the possibility to study a topic of choice anywhere in the world. Initially, my interest in anthropology came from writing a bachelor thesis on post-colonial education systems more specifically in Burkina Faso. I was inspired to write on the topic because of my personal background being Italian and Burkinabé. I took a post-colonial perspective to understand the aftermath of colonialism not only in terms of material wealth but also in terms of “psychological” colonization. I sought to continue research on education in Burkina Faso, but I then changed my topic to migration in Italy. Here, I will focus on the experiences of sub-Saharan migrants that arrive in Italy while analyzing critically discourses from politicians and mainstream social media.
- What is the best thing about being an international student at the University of Oslo?
Being an international student at the University of Oslo is amazing because all the means to do a good job at school are provided. Great reading areas, cafeterias, and cafés where you can relax and hang out with friends. There are many social activities that international students can take part in, which is also a great way to meet new people. Finally, I really enjoy living in Oslo because of the cultural diversity and therefore being able to learn new things, perspectives, languages, eating different kinds of food really giving me the sense of being part of a cosmopolitan society.