A New Beginning

September 19, 2016

An international experience is what every Northeastern student thinks about. We are bombarded with such an array of opportunities that it might overwhelm us at times, it is difficult to decide on what exactly it is that we want to do. I decided I wanted to study abroad because I will already spend too much time in Boston. Two international co-ops will not be enough; I need to take advantage of all the opportunities I have of learning about new cultures. I have always wanted to live in Europe, and this was my chance of doing so.

Living in Oslo will definitely change my view of the world. Every place has different customs and different reasons for doing things. I think this experience will make me more patient and open to new ideas. I do not have any specific goals to check off while abroad, besides having a great time and forcing myself to truly immerse myself into a place far dissimilar to what I am used to. I want to join many campus clubs and go to as many events as I can. This is the best way to meet people, besides simply approaching people on the street.

My main fear about my study abroad experience is being alone in a foreign country. Granted, Boston was already a foreign place to me but I already had friends before arriving. I do not know anyone in Oslo. I will try my best to reach out to people and make new friends. I am also worried about being completely submersed in a country of a foreign language. I have already signed up for a one week crash course in Norwegian at my school, so I can at least ask for help if Google Maps stops working.

Still, I cannot contain my excitement! Living in a Scandinavian country has always been my dream. I have admired their culture and sustainable techniques for a very long time. I am excited to be surrounded by the breathtaking nature in Norway and hope to hike as many mountains as I can. I am excited for new culinary experiences. I am excited about meeting my professors. I am excited about moving to the homeland of Vikings… but most of all, and I am excited to start my sophomore year of college!

Written By

Deborah Vasquez Contreras

I am a second-year student from Venezuela, pursuing a double degree in Economics and Environmental Studies. Growing up in a country with high biodiversity, though tainted by a poor environmental policy, encouraged me to apply for a study abroad program in Norway. I am excited to immerse myself in a culture very different from my own. I am also confident that I will learn a lot from one of the most sustainable and modern cities in the world- while enjoying the occasional visit to the fjords.