Robert Radinger is our a second-year student at Economics and Management currently on exchange at BI Norwegian Business School in Oslo. His experience in Norway has been a blend of academic growth, cultural adaptation, and memorable adventures. Read on to discover what motivated him to choose Oslo and how this exchange has shaped his outlook!
What initially motivated me to choose Oslo for my exchange was hearing about my best friend’s amazing experience here. She had already spent a semester in Oslo and couldn’t stop talking about how much he enjoyed both the city and the university, so I figured it was the perfect opportunity to try something new myself.
My exchange experience in Oslo has been enriching and quite different from back home. The university here is much larger than ZSEM, with over 20,000 students, and the courses focus more on project work rather than exams, offering an approach that’s been both challenging and refreshing. Adjusting to this new academic style took some time, but it has enhanced my practical and social skills.
Life in Oslo is more laid-back compared to Croatia. The food is good, though I find the Croatian kitchen unmatched. People here don’t frequent cafes as much; instead, they seem to enjoy a slower pace of life, spending more time at home with family, which has made the city feel more relaxed and less stressful. My adaptation was easy since I moved here with two of my best friends, and we started the whole exchange with a two-day road trip from Croatia to Norway, an experience to remember!
Navigating the city is easy since everyone speaks English, and the organized structure of Oslo makes it a convenient place to live, with the sea nearby for occasional leisure. While the cost of living is a lot higher and adjusting to the local currency was a bit of a challenge, the overall experience has been incredibly positive.
I would certainly recommend Oslo to anyone considering an exchange program; it offers a unique combination of academic newness and a calming lifestyle. If you plan on coming make sure to bring all your winter clothes!
