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"The quality of education and lack of tuition fee were things that drew me to Norway."

Everybody here is very nice and welcoming! There is always someone to study with, talk to, and spend time with.

Jonna Nuutinen from Finland

Bachelor in Global Development Studies

Please introduce yourself.

My name is Jonna Nuutinen and I am 20 years old. I come from Helsinki, a city located in the southern part of Finland. I moved to Norway to study right after finishing high school, and I am currently on my first year of the bachelor’s programme in Global Development Studies.

Why did you choose Norway?

After deciding that I would move abroad to study, choosing the country was fairly easy for me. Before moving to Norway I had been here a few times, and had already fallen in love with the country’s beautiful nature and good atmosphere. Also, the quality of education and lack of tuition fee were things that drew me to Norway.

When looking at universities, what stood out about UiA?

UiA has a very broad selection of different study programs, so for me it wasn’t difficult to find one that I found interesting. I got a very good impression of UiA from the university’s website and social media accounts. With UiA being a relatively small university, it seemed like one where it would be easy to reach out to teachers, and where students are being thought about and taken care of.  

What were your first impressions upon arrival?

Everybody here is very nice and welcoming! There’s always someone to study with, talk to, and spend time with. Also, people are extremely helpful and approachable, and if you ever need help with anything, you’re guaranteed to receive it. 

What do you think about your course in particular?

I couldn’t be happier with it! Already after the first week of studies I understood that this is what I want to study. The programme offers you valuable knowledge about things happening around you, and helps you understand different cultures, issues, and perspectives in a whole new way. Also, since the program is entirely in English, there are many international students, which allows you to hear about different countries, experiences, and cultures, and get to know people from all around the world.

What do you like about Kristiansand and why?

The city is very cozy and beautiful. Everything you need is within walking distance, and if you need to go further away, the public transport works really well. Even though I currently live in the city centre, I feel like I’m not only surrounded by beautiful wooden houses and bike lanes, but also some incredible nature – the forests, trails, parks, and lakes in Kristiansand never fail to impress me!

What was one thing you discovered about Norway that was unexpected?

Most stores aren’t open on Sundays! In Finland I’ve gotten used to almost all stores being open every day, some even 24/7. Here in Kristiansand only some stores (the most expensive ones) are open daily, so remember to do your groceries before Sunday!

What would you like to share about UiA to your home country?

If you feel like applying to UiA, do it! Don’t worry too much about practicalities such as money, housing etc. – everything will work itself out. After arriving here and beginning your studies remember to engage yourself, be active, meet as many new people as possible, and first and foremost enjoy yourself. I promise you won’t regret it!

Do you think UiA has given you any unique opportunities?

Most definitely! I haven’t been here that long yet, but I already feel like I’ve gotten so much! I’ve met plenty of interesting people, made new friends, learned much, and experienced a lot. I’m also really looking forward to all the opportunities the future has in store for me. My initial impression of the university proved out to be accurate, and I couldn’t be happier with my choice of coming here.