Poni Victoria Amaka overcomes Scandinavian summer insomnia as she arrives in Norway for her Master's in Global Development Studies
My name is Poni Victoria. I am a citizen of South Sudan living in Uganda as a refugee, and a first-year student on NMBU's Master degree in Global Development Studies. I came to NMBU under the Norpart scholarship scheme. First and foremost, I would like to thank the Norpart team and project for giving me this opportunity, and for the steadfast support given to me right from day one.
New chapter
My journey began with an adventure of a lifetime, as I boarded my very first flight to Europe. The thrill of soaring above the clouds and the anticipation of what awaited me in Norway filled me with awe. It was a surreal experience that set the tone for my new chapter.
Upon arriving at the university, I quickly realized that the learning system in Norway was unlike anything I had encountered before. Everything, from course modules to assignments and even study resources, was conveniently posted on Canvas. This digital platform was a game-changer, especially for students like me who joined a bit later. It made accessing and organizing study materials a breeze.
What struck me the most, though, was the warmth and kindness of the people I met. On my very first day, a fellow student took me under their wing. They not only gave me a warm welcome but also shared invaluable insights, such as the study plan, navigating Canvas, and finding the best study spots on campus. Their generosity made adapting to the new environment much smoother.
Unique outdoor learning
Another aspect of Norway that left a profound impression on me was the country's commitment to environmental conservation. The campus, nestled amidst lush greenery and surrounded by pristine water bodies, offers a unique outdoor learning experience. It was a refreshing change from the urban hustle and bustle I am accustomed to.
I went with my classmates on a tour of Oslo's Opera House and to see some of its other landmarks - particularly the Oslo fjord, the library and some of the many sculptures around the city, which are so stunning.
The systems and technology at the campus baffled me - especially the door locks, use of student cards for door opening and the active infrared sensors on the doors.
Late sunsets
The sun takes a long time to set in Norway in the summer - it gets dark late at night, which is so strange to me. I found it hard to sleep early because of the late sunset, sometimes forgetting that it’s nighttime until I see the time.
The food is different - it will take a long time to get used to some of it!
The weather is a baffling to me - I came to Norway thinking that its summer and it may be hot like in my home country. To my surprise, the place is cold and the weather is like the rainy season in my home country.
I expected to see Norway and the campus surrounded by water bodies and floods because I saw a lot of water bodies from the map of Norway.
Overcoming challenges
I overcame the above-mentioned challenges through the help of fellow students, a change of mindset and readiness to adapt.
My fellow NORPART scholars showed me the local areas, means of transport, the NMBU campus and other academic info.
The study advisor also helped me greatly and taught me a lot. She registered me, oriented me on the electives, and got me signed up for my courses.