"The energy and the feeling of society inside UiA is amazing."

Please introduce yourself. 

My name is Sevan Esagholian. I’m 28, I’m Armenian but I live in Iran. I have a Bachelor's degree in Biology and I started a Master's degree in Coastal Ecology. My hobbies include watching movies with my wife, playing the guitar and recently riding my bike.

Why did you choose Norway?

First of all, the education is free, I think that’s great. My second reason is because Norwegian culture is amazing: I love the nature. I did research about the country and culture and it amazed me, and that’s why we decided to move to Norway. I am here with wife. She has a master degree in architecture and she is currently looking for a job. 

When looking/applying at universities, what stood out to you about UiA?

First of all, Kristiansand as a city attracted me the most. The UiA website accurately described the course and programme I wanted. 

What were your first impressions upon arrival?

The first time I was here was at the Orientation day, we gathered at the seminar room, and they had this lecture about the general programmes at UiA, about ESN. Everyone was so friendly so it was very warming and welcoming. ESN and the buddies were very helpful on that day and now we are current active members of ESN as well. 

What do you think about your course in particular?

The course is very interesting. The professors teach us very well. The semester is very compact, but it’s nothing hard to handle. We have field trips, lab activity.

What do you like about Kristiansand and why? 

I like the peacefulness. It’s not too crowded. It’s a very relaxed city, especially for me. I come from Tehran, a very busy and crowded place. The population is 8 million people, so very different when compared to Kristiansand *laughs*.  

What was one thing you discovered about Norway that was unexpected? 

There’s no Turkish coffee here! In Norway, people drink French coffee or espresso, so nobody drinks Turkish coffee. So my mum had to send me some. 

What would you like to share about UiA / the study programme to your home country?

The energy and the feeling of society inside UiA is amazing. Everyone is so warm and friendly. The courses and programmes are very interesting, and you enjoy studying. The library is amazing as we can enjoy studying in a peaceful place.

Do you think UiA has given you any unique opportunities? 

We have this module, in which we need to prepare a presentation. They give us an opportunity to choose any topic related to marine biology. The main purpose is to follow your interest and to find a topic that you care about. In my opinion it’s very interesting and cool. I haven’t chosen my topic yet, I’m working on it.