Formative for my further career

What prompted you to attend the summer school in the mid-1990s?

– I started my university studies right after the referendum on Norwegian EU membership in 1994 – European integration was a hot topic! The Summer School in Kristiansand was – and still is – a unique opportunity for anyone wanting to start specialising in EU affairs. It was also very practical to combine with other studies – in my case, French.

What do you still remember from those days?

– I really enjoyed the multidisciplinary approach of the Summer School – it was not only a specialist course in European integration; for many it was also an introduction to new disciplines, be that law, economics, history or political science. I remember intensive days in the auditorium, but also wonderful afternoons and weekends the sun, on the beach and by the lakes in the forests nearby... Kristiansand is a great place to be in summer! I have fond memories from working as a journalist in the student newspaper, Sørvisa.

How has it helped your further career?

– The Summer School laid solid foundations for my later studies at the College of Europe, and my experience at the student newspaper prompted me to go on to study journalism in London. Both these studies have been formative for my career in the Norwegian foreign service, where I have specialised in EU affairs.

Why might it be useful to attend a summer school in Norway on the topic of European integration?

– Knowledge of European integration is needed in all areas of society, be that in the private sector or at all levels of public administration. I am very pleased to see that the Summer School has developed into a truly international programme, with students from many different countries. That makes attending the Summer School even more rewarding, both professionally and socially.