Jordi Hall
From: Adelaide, South Australia
Partner program and university: Bachelor of Outdoor and Environmental Leadership at Adelaide
Studerer:
Outdoor Education, Exchange program
From snow caves to coastal kayaking, we were never pushed beyond our limits
How did you enjoy your studies and being a student at UiA?
I absolutely adored studying as an international student at UiA. I felt very supported by both students and staff, and all the information I needed was communicated clearly and easily.
The facilities were really nice, and I lived in a brand-new apartment on campus – it honestly felt like living in a fancy penthouse! UiA offered so many opportunities to get involved through events like music groups, dance classes, career days, excursions, and more. I always felt included.
We were right next to a beautiful park, just a 10-minute bike ride from the city centre, with an ocean view from my window. We were also only a short bus or train ride from some of the most breathtaking places in Norway. There were just so many things to do, and endless opportunities to take part in.
Why did you choose this study programme?
I chose to study Friluftsliv at UiA because two friends of mine, who also studied Outdoor Education back home, strongly recommended it. They had incredible stories about digging snow caves and making friends across the globe – I was eager to experience the same. Coming from dry South Australia, I had hardly experienced snow before. The chance to go backcountry skiing and explore snow environments was something I’d never been able to do – that really drew me in.
Can you tell us a little about the programme?
This programme took us through a wide variety of Norwegian landscapes – from snowy mountains to freshwater springs and coastal islands. We developed skills in skiing, canoeing, kayaking, climbing, avalanche awareness, winter survival, knot tying, different camping techniques, fishing, foraging – and how to teach these things to others.
Even though it was a busy and sometimes exhausting programme, I always felt supported, safe, and never pushed beyond my limits.
Our lecturers were legends – by the end, they felt more like friends.
How is the teaching?
This course was packed with hands-on and practical learning, which suited me perfectly. It didn’t really feel like studying – every second week we had a uni camp! In the weeks between camps, we attended lectures, worked on assignments, practiced outdoor skills, and went on our own adventures. Our lecturers were legends – by the end, they felt more like friends.
We had two exams (simple and geared toward helping us succeed) and two assignments focused on planning outdoor activity days for kids – one of which was done in collaboration with the Norwegian Friluftsliv students. The workload was very manageable, giving us plenty of time to explore Norway during free weeks and weekends.
How is student life outside of studies?
I loved the events and opportunities available for international students like myself. Things like waffle-hour, hikes, game nights, and the buddy programme excursions really helped us feel welcome and build community.
The buddy programme was super helpful – I had lots of questions about accommodation, campus life, and Norway in general, and my buddies helped with everything.
I loved living on campus – it felt like a fancy penthouse!
Living on campus in Kristiansand was incredibly comfortable. I always saw familiar faces, and someone was always looking out for me. There was always something to do – from sauna and hot tub sessions at the gym (which also had a huge pool and climbing wall), to skiing, hiking, swimming, indoor and outdoor climbing on Odderøya, ice skating in the city, or dancing at Harvey’s nightclub or the karaoke bar.
What do you see yourself working with in the future?
I really enjoy working outdoors as a guide and see myself doing this for quite some time. I'd love to keep building my qualifications and explore more regions of Australia – or even work in other countries. I also study conservation as part of my degree, and I’m very passionate about the environment, so that might be a future path for me too.
Would you recommend the study programme and UiA?
Absolutely. If you love learning new skills, connecting with nature, challenging yourself, and forming meaningful relationships – this course is for you. Whether or not you want a career in the outdoors, this programme teaches you about resilience, responsibility, health, connection, nature, and so much more.
Do you have any tips for future students?
My biggest advice? Say yes to everything! Try something new, challenge yourself – you might meet your next international best friend or create a core memory for life. Also, take advantage of the many free and student-discount opportunities: free outdoor gear rentals from BUA, cheap cabin stays with DNT, affordable second-hand bikes, free student climbing at Odderøya, budget flights for students, and more. Make the most of the experience – it goes fast, and you’ll wish you could stay longer!