"I liked that UiA is located in a small city with amazing nature around it"

Please introduce yourself.

My name is Nicolas Fröhlich and I am an Erasmus exchange student from Constance, Germany.

Currently I am doing my bachelor’s in political sciences. 

Why did you choose Norway?

The north always fascinated me, but what really got me first was the language. When I was travelling through and hiking in Norway a few years ago, my plan to come here again solidified even more.

What stood out to you about UiA?

I liked that UiA is located in a small city with amazing nature around it. The landscape was a very big factor in my decision (and I am by no means disappointed)

What were your first impressions upon arrival?

My first impression was: Norway is a great host. As we arrived in the midst of the pandemic, we all had to stay in a quarantine hotel for the first 10 days. UiA and the municipality provided us with the accommodation and the food and tried to make our arrival as pleasant as possible. 

What do you think about the course in particular?

Unfortunately, most of them are taught online. But still, considering that most of Europe is in a strict lockdown, I really appreciate being able to simply work in the library if I want to.

What do you like about Kristiansand and why? 

For me, the city has the perfect size. I get everything I want downtown and I am nevertheless always close to the sea, the lakes and the forest. If the hills behind the university would be a few hundred meters higher, it would be absolutely perfect.

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

Try it! I was only here in winter yet, and everyone says that the summertime is even better. Hard to imagine, as the last weeks already brought so much new experiences, fun and knowledge.

Do you think UiA has given you any unique opportunities? 

Absolutely. I guess some of it is kind of a "corona special", but just to mention a few, I loved the free breakfast on Mondays or the free organised ski trips.