Balthes Reichensperger
From: Heidelberg, Germany
Partner program and university: Master of education with subjects Physical education and computer science at Heidelberg
Studerer:
Outdoor Education, Exchange program
It’s not just a class – it’s an adventure.
How did you enjoy your studies and being a student at UiA?
As you can tell from my answers, I really enjoyed my studies and being a student at UiA. It was an incredible experience, and I enjoyed every bit of it – the city, living on campus, the classes, the people I met, and especially all the adventures we went on.
Why did you choose this study programme?
UiA has a partnership with the University of Heidelberg, and a good friend of mine had been to Kristiansand the year before me. He told me he’d had an incredible semester and suggested I apply as well. Also, two friends of mine applied at the same time, and since I had just finished my bachelor’s thesis, the timing was perfect.
Can you tell us a little about the programme?
The Friluftsliv (Outdoor Education) class is not your average class. It’s an adventure. It starts indoors, with lessons that prepare you to plan trips in both winter and summer. Learning so much before going out gives you confidence, even in tough conditions.
You gain skills fast – things you wouldn’t learn anywhere else in such a short time. From backcountry skiing, navigation and staying warm in winter, to sea kayaking, canoeing and water safety. You learn what you need to camp and travel outdoors.
You learn skills in one semester you wouldn’t get anywhere else.
How is the teaching?
The lectures are good, and what you learn comes in handy later. At the start of the semester, most teaching happens indoors, which works well because of the cold weather and short days. Later, you have fewer classes and more freedom to plan your own trips and go on adventures. You’re away from campus a lot, which I really liked.
If you want to see what studying Friluftsliv (Outdoor Education) is like, I recommend checking out my YouTube channel (yt: @outdoorswithbalthes).
Videos from the Outdoor Education programme
How is student life outside of studies?
The student environment is very good. I enjoyed the Buddy programme and all the activities in the beginning – I really recommend attending those to get to know people. You have enough free time to meet others, do sports, or go into the city. But since you’re on many trips, you’ll also be out of town quite a bit.
I use what I learned in Norway to teach kids that the outdoors is beautiful.
What do you see yourself working with in the future?
I’m studying to become a teacher – and that’s my dream job so far, working with kids and young adults. I can use so much of what I learned in Norway in my future job. I want to teach kids how beautiful it is to be outdoors and how much you can learn from nature. I also learned how to lead groups outdoors, which is really helpful when managing a class.
Would you recommend the study programme and UiA?
I would recommend studying at UiA because the studies are well organised. The classes are high quality, and the teachers really know what they’re talking about. You get all the information you need in advance, and you always find support if you need it.
The Buddy programme helped me make friends quickly, and I liked living on campus. I’d recommend the Friluftsliv (Outdoor Education) class to anyone who loves being outdoors and enjoys a challenge.
Do you have any tips for future students?
- Set reminders for deadlines and make a checklist of the documents you need. Also, save a bit of extra money – food and living costs are higher. Buy groceries when they’re on sale and use the Too Good To Go app to save money and reduce food waste.
- Get your equipment on sale in advance – don’t pay full price for clothes, tents or sleeping bags. But you don’t need everything beforehand – you can share gear with others too.
- Become a member of DNT while you’re in Norway – they have amazing huts all over the country. Use the UT.no app to find the best hikes and huts, and check the weather with the YR app – it’s the most reliable.