Learning About Political Ecology in Norway
The Fall semester in HiOA is divided into two, with one class finishing in the middle of October and the other in December. The two courses I am taking, The Political Ecology of Climate Change and Renewable Energy in Latin America and Africa + Capitalist Development in China and India, are taught by different professors but form part of the same Development Program in HiOA.
The class on Political Ecology is my favorite. Professor Axel does an amazing job on providing unbiased literature from diverse sources, along with bringing in lecturers that are experts in unique areas, while making it all seem feasible (time wise). It has been really interesting because I am familiar with the topics on Latin America since I have lived it. I come from Venezuela, a country whose revenues are almost entirely due to the oil industry. I have been with the indigenous people in the Amazon suffering from climate change and political decisions. The class has been very relatable and interesting to learn about while being in Europe.
When it comes to finishing all the readings on time, I try to stay for a couple of hours after class at the university’s library. They have study rooms similar to Snell’s except that instead of chairs you have bean bags. That’s my go-to study spot when I’m in a hurry. The majority of the time I go to the benches around Sognsvann Lake. It is only a five-minute walk from my apartment and I can take blankets or food with me!
