Oslo, Norway: An Introduction to Scandinavia Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

While at the University of Oslo, I took courses on Korean History, Norwegian Life and Society, and The Scandinavian Welfare State in English. I also took an introductory Norwegian Language Course. I found all of the instructors to be helpful. Overall, I was very satifised though it took time to get used to the different course load, grading system, and class schedule.

On-site administration of your program

While in Oslo, I was able to consult with the study abroad office when I needed help. They were able to discuss banking, how to find things on campus, and how to sign up for classes. Every time I went in to ask questions, they were very polite and able to answer my questions. Additionally, they organized activities for orientation and throughout the year to give international students an opportunity to meet up.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

While in Oslo, I lived in a university appartment (Sogn) with Norwegian students. Overall, I am very pleased with housing accomdations. The appartment was located near a subway stop, bus stops, the university athletic center, and several grocery stores. The unviversity was about a 20-25 minute walk and a 10 minute subway ride. Downtown Oslo was probably a 25-30 minute subway ride. The appartment I selected was furnished meaning it came with a closet, desk, chair, and bed. I was responsible for buying linens, kitchen supplies, and other household items.

I did most of my own cooking while in Norway as the cost of eating out is considerable compared to in the United States. Grocery stores were readily available though the hours were more limited than what I am used to home (i.e. closed on Sunday). Additionally, I am a vegetarian which was difficult when I was eating with other students during communal cooking social events.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Norway was an excellent place to study given my interest in social welfare programs and crime. The government provides a range of social services that are available to all citizens (education through the university level, parental leave to care for children, child care, health care, etc) which I found very interesting. Additionally, Norway has relatively low crime rates and a very different approach to justice and punishment than at home. Additionally, Oslo is a very accessible city as you can get almost anywhere using public transit (i.e.subway, light rail, boat, and bus). The Nobel Peace center, various art museums, the Folk Museum, the Holocaust center, the Viking Ship Museum, Vigeland Sculpture Park, Hollmenkollen Ski Jump, Akerhus Fortress etc are all very interesting. Throughout the year, the international office organized trips to the Viking Ship Museum, Hollmenkollen, etc. Through the Norwegian Life and Culture course, we were also given a tour of the National Gallery art museum. Oslo also had a "culture night" where they opened the Stortinget (parliament), City Hall, and various museums for free tours.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Throughout the program, I felt very safe. Norway has a comparatively low crime rate though it is still important to watch out for thieves and pick pockets (I believe a man tried to steal my purse once).

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

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• Apartment

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• Local Students