Volda University College, one of AAU’s Erasmus exchange destination options, is known among Norwegians to be a strong name to have on one’s resume in the media sector.
Volda is a tiny village in the midst of the picturesque fjords of Norway, offering quick access to some of the best skiing and mountain climbing opportunities in Europe. For individuals interested in media studies, the country’s best known media school conveniently sits right in its heart. The small size of the place fosters deeper and more personal connections in the community.
As an exchange student, one is quick to map down the club downtown, the three main cafes and the sporting facilities, where you’ll always be sure to spot a familiar face.
Volda’s highlighting feature is the wild and impressive nature that encompasses the university from every corner. The 20-minute round trip journey from the dorms to class is greeted with a breathtaking view of a mountain skyline that is never dressed in the same color and cloud combination.
In contrast to life in Prague, it has seemed invaluable for me to spend time in the complete silence Volda is surrounded by, and really get to the bottom of what is most important for me in life.
One of the deepest realizations came to me at a spontaneous all-day exchange student get-together in a sauna by the fjord. That Sunday, I discovered how central and essential it is to be surrounded by people and to just listen and soak in the surrounding nature.
I think that this is something genuinely and evolutionarily human to enjoy and necessary for thriving.
Norwegians are not afraid of cold or storms. They are not bothered by going on a daily jog in pouring rain–which happens a lot. They often enjoy outdoor swimming all year long. I have been reminded here, how much richness is contained in the skill of knowing how to sail a boat, read the sky and nature, and venture outdoors for days sleeping in a tent. People here have inspired me to have the habit of being excited over getting out into the wild, moving and appreciating my surroundings.
To me, Volda has been about appreciating nature, silence, and good weather, as well as realizing that it is still possible to be cheerful in the rain. During the fewer sunny days however, it has been inspiring how locals dive into the beauty of the moment and celebrate.
I invite every potential interested student to consider the option of spending a semester in Volda. Perhaps to find themselves in a sauna, with people from all over the world connected in the same moment, listening to the sound of the sea in the fjord and howling of the owl, and perhaps even feeling their perspectives shift, like mine did.
