Trust at the airport and cars stopping at zebra crossings: Jane Lakot describes her culture shock as she arrives in Norway for her Master studies at NMBU.
Norway, a country known for its breathtaking landscapes, beautiful cities and rich cultural heritage, has always been among the countries in Europe I looked forward to visiting. The opportunity finally came to me in 2023 when I won a NORPART scholarship that would enable me to pursue my Master’s degree in International Environmental Studies at the Norwegian University of Life Sciences.
Warm welcome and culture shock
When I landed at Gardermoen Airport in Oslo, I was so fascinated by the warm welcome I received by the immigration team. The gentleman who served me was so friendly and helpful as he advised me on how to get to the university by train (I found the train station easily despite being new). My cultural shock started right there! While my identity was being verified, I noticed the high level of honesty and integrity that the country operates on - can you imagine, Norwegians do self-checks-in when entering the country! This is something which would never happen in Uganda.
As I proceeded to collect my luggage, I would usually be expecting someone to call out my name and ask me bunch of questions to verify my identity before I could receive my belongings. Shockingly, it was self-service yet no one would take other people’s luggage. This experience alone set clear expectations and standard of the country.
Pedestrian priority
One of the biggest cultural shocks that still amazes me is when crossing the road at zebra crossings. No matter how slow a pedestrian walks, all the vehicles on the roads come to a halt, patiently waiting for you to cross before they proceed on their journey. Mind you, I still to this day say thank you to the drivers whenever they stop at the zebra crossing to allow me to cross.
One day I was crossing while running and I was chanting thank you to the drivers. A friend of mine from Malawi with whom I was walking laughed so hard and said, “Jane! This is not Africa, you are safe!”, followed with more laughter. As I am well aware, in Uganda one has to bring track-star running skills whenever crossing the road, even at zebra crossings.
Luxurious student living
Arriving in Ås, I was met by Iben who drove me and my colleagues to our student apartment. The apartment was so beautiful, the arrangement was so inclusive - imagine we have a dish washer, washing machines, well-furnished kitchen, living room and dining room! Indeed I am living my best princess life at the moment.
Learning in Norway
I started my studies by attending the introduction week and classes, MORE culture shock! Walking here is like a hobby, and people walk fast that I struggled to keep up with the ‘Norwegian pace’, as I call it. I got myself a bike.
The education system is quite unique. Answers are not provided to students - instead, I am encouraged to think in my own way, critically analyze and critique a situation, to present my own arguments and defend them.
Punctuality and approachability
And Eh eh! Time management is very much key here, a professor will start on the dot. And you don’t have to address a professor as Prof. so-and-so - they are so relaxed that we refer to them by their first name. Whenever I need help, I can contact my professors and they will sit and listen to me.
So, transitioning to Norway has been quite insightful. I have learnt to contribute my views in class without fear of being labelled 'wrong'. Study and reading materials are always available on Canvas, making it more convenient. I can never stop being grateful for the free internet services on campus and in the student apartment. It's quite different from Uganda that dwells a lot on paper materials. Here, internet services is more convenient and cost-effective, so I can read without printing. The fact that the library services offers support has made digging into my curiosity easier through the available reading materials.
Almost everyone takes notes on their laptops, though I am used to notebooks - well, I haven’t changed this - I still use my note books as that's what works for me.
Oh, did I tell you about the inclusive clubs within the university? There are so many that you cannot fail to find one that you belong to. There are so many things I have to say about the education system!
When we went to Lillehammer for an excursion for our course Introduction to International Environmental Studies, I was chatting with our programme leader Prof. Guri Bang and shared the culture shock I was experiencing in Norway. Guri shared the Norwegian history of development and how the country often operates on the basis of trust. I told her, “Norwegians should be among the happiest people in the world.” She replied: “Yeah? Why?” I said, “Ever since I came to this country, I have had peace of mind. I don’t have to stress and think too hard for life to happen. In fact, I have set part of my brain to rest because the system works for me.” She was like, 'that’s good to know, I hope you enjoy your stay here, use the opportunity.'
The weather was a bit challenging in the beginning, relying on Google searches to inform my packing. I would have appreciated a heads up on what to pack in terms of warm clothes. I was, however, able to adjust quickly since it was only summer - but a cold summer at that.
Social adaptation: Networking
Norwegians are usually reserved, which is opposite to Uganda where everyone is open and can start up conversations immediately. So, most times they may not start a conversation with you. Therefore, being an extraverted person, I always start up a conversation and it has worked for me. Oh, and they love to party and definitely open up when they are at a party and got some beers in.
Embracing change
Now for those planning to visit or study in Norway, I have this advice: Never miss the opportunity to interact with the kindest and most honest people in the world. Norway embraces all cultures - but remember to pack enough warm clothes; As Norwegians always say, 'there's no such thing as bad weather, only a bad choice in clothing.'
Put yourself out there, you will make some of the best, loyal friends ever. And always be yourself, because Norway does not choose. I always say I am experiencing the best country in the world right now.
