Natalia from UWr

About Natalia

• Student from the University of Wroclaw.
• Exchange student at INN, Campus Lillehammer, autumn 2023 and spring 2024.
• Studied:
  • Because I had been studying European Diplomacy at my home institution, my courses abroad had to be related to politics, so I chose:
  • Autumn semester: War and Peace, Welfare and Equality, and Media and Politics.
  • Spring semester: Language and Communication, International Politics, and Culture and Communication.

Why did you choose INN as your exchange destination?

I chose INN mainly because of its location (the mesmerising nature surrounding Campus Lillehammer) and its various courses. I did not have to worry that my program of study would be irrelevant to the faculty I have in my home country.

How would you describe your time as an exchange student at INN?

Without a doubt, it was a pleasure. Those twelve months in Norway were full of amazing views and extremely nice people. Together with the exchange students, we fulfilled our dreams every day — whether by going on a hike or sitting outside of our dorms, chatting and having fun while eating Freia chocolate ;)).

The university itself offered many integration events and trips, too, which we (students) are grateful for because they definitely helped us get to know each other and create long-lasting friendships, which I can proudly say we still have today.

What is the best memory of your exchange at INN?

Do I have to choose one? Only one? No option... There were a lot of them, for instance: the Besseggen hike together with the Balbergkampen hike. Also, the memorable Mesna hike when we had a bonfire with marshmallows, and suddenly, it started raining. I also cannot forget the skiing resort party (Hafjell) and the Christmas Eve evening in Studenten.

What are your best tips for future exchange students?

My best tips are:

• Take a lot of thermal clothing, especially if you are staying during the winter semester! Even if you think you do not need it, you are wrong — you DO need it.
• Do not be afraid of the first few days. It is a new place for you, but it gets better. You are not alone, every exchange student is in the same situation at the beginning of the semester.
• Similarly to the previous point, do not be afraid to talk with people, regardless of your English level, just TALK.
• Participate in the Integration Week (Fadderuka) and other proposed activities — they are a lot of fun!
• If you have an option, travel around Norway!!!

How has your exchange influenced or benefitted you?

I met lots of people from different backgrounds and gained friendships that last a lifetime. My English improved during the stay, which I am extremely glad about. I travelled to places that I would dream about, and there were no disappointments.
After coming back home, I started studying Norwegian, and fell in love with the language, which is another valid point for the future in diplomacy or for the work in the office with international contacts.

I can proudly say that my stay in Norway for a year was the best time of my life, and I will cherish every single memory that I have with the hope of coming back one day with my international friends.

Anything you wish to add?

Thank you to all the lecturers for being thoughtful and helpful to us students; international office workers for always being there for us; and to all the exchange students, for making our little dreams come true together.

Thank you and og håper å se deg!