Celine Remme
- Study programme: Bachelor's programme in planning and communication og bachelor's programme in communication studies
- From: Egersund, Norway
Where did you go?
Sibiu, Romania.
Course
"Life & Vision - Design Your Life"
Why did you choose to go on an exchange with FORTHEM?
I chose to go on a mini-exchange because it's an exciting opportunity to work internationally with students from all over Europe, and because the stay is relatively short, which fits well in terms of both studies and part-time work back home in Norway. It was also a golden opportunity to explore a topic I'm interested in in a new context.
What was the best thing about the place you travelled to?
Sibiu was an incredibly beautiful city, which actually reminded me very much of Italy. There were cosy streets, colourful and beautiful architecture, and charming small establishments. The city was just the right size, and everything from the university, main street, square and shopping centre was within 15 minutes' walking distance.
How was the programme, and what did you learn?
The programme was intensively structured and gave us the opportunity to reflect on both who we are as people and what we want for the future, both personally and professionally. It wasn't just about career choices, but also about how one can combine work life and personal life in a positive way.
Through various activities and conversations, we got to work with our own values, ideas and strengths, and think about what is actually important to us in life and in a future job.
I learnt a lot about myself, and it was incredibly rewarding to be able to discuss this together with students from many different countries and cultures.
Did you have to know a lot about the topic to be able to travel?
No, the most important thing was interest and motivation. You don't need to be an expert, and emphasis is placed on learning along the way and contributing your own perspectives. Many of us came from different fields of study, and that only made the discussions more exciting. It's more about being curious, open and willing to participate actively than knowing everything beforehand.
How was the application process?
I sent my CV and application to FORTHEM and the organising university. When I found out that I got a place on the mini-exchange, the process of arranging a travel grant began.
It was both challenging and incredibly inspiring!
Was it expensive?
No, most of it was covered through a travel grant from Erasmus, including travel and accommodation. I spent a bit of money on food and personal expenses, but overall it was very affordable. A pizza in Romania only cost about 80 Norwegian kroner!
Who did you travel with?
I travelled alone from my university, but quickly got to know students from all over Europe. Several travelled together from their universities, so it was a mix. Silje Holteberg from UiA Career also participated in the course as a staff member, and helped with running the course.
How was it to work together with people from so many different countries and cultures?
It was both challenging and incredibly inspiring! Even though we had different ways of communicating and collaborating, we learnt a lot from each other, and it became a very inclusive and creative working environment.
How do you think you can make use of the experience in the future?
I have strengthened my collaboration skills, intercultural competence and become more confident in English. These are experiences that are valuable both in further studies and in working life.
Tips for others who are considering an exchange with FORTHEM?
Just apply! It's a low-threshold and incredibly rewarding way to experience an exchange. Be open to new people and new perspectives. Don't be afraid to travel alone - on such a programme everyone is interested in getting to know new people.