Umar from Indonesia

Umar studied urban planning in Indonesia and saw the Oslo master programme as a good opportunity to broaden his perspectives in human geography.  At campus, he found the good facilities for international students to be an additional benefit.

Umar
Photo: Eirik Jacobsen

Why did you study human geography?

Coming from an urban planning/development background, I wanted to understand more fundamentally the nature of spaces and places and their relationships with society. Additionally, the chance to explore different theories and ways of analysing the world geographically is an intriguing aspect for me personally. I was not satisfied with what I learned in urban planning, and, wanting more, this seemed like a fitting field.


Why did you apply for this particular MA programme?

I was immediately attracted to the programme's structure, with the different specializations it offers. The climate change specialization was of particular interest to me because I wanted to shift my focus from urban planning and development towards climate change and what that means for the Global South. The electives were also intriguing, and fit nicely with any of the specializations. It was exciting reading the syllabus for the different courses both in the climate change specialization and the electives, and it was then that I decided that I should apply.

 

What is the best thing about being an international master's student at the University of Oslo?

I would say the campus facilities is one of the best parts of being an international student; from journal access, library books and space, open spaces, free Norwegian language classes, affordable housing, and everyone being able to speak English. I would be hard pressed to find similar facilities back home. Also, the student discounts are definitely a plus!

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Published May 14, 2020 8:36 AM - Last modified May 14, 2020 8:37 AM