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"I really like the teaching methodology at UiA"

Maritza Milena Muñoz Delgado (photo)

The programme enables us to understand how to address global issues and also how to make a positive impact.

Maritza Delgado from Colombia

Bachelor in Global Development Studies

Please introduce yourself

I am Maritza Milena Muñoz Delgado, I am Colombian, my hometown is called San Juan de Pasto. I am 30 years old and I am occupational therapist.

I am attending the second semester of the bachelor in global development studies.

Why did you choose Norway?

Norway is a spectacular country, with great benefits for people who want to study here. It offers good quality of life and the educational system is very good. It has excellent universities and it is also a very safe country which makes it possible to go out and enjoy the beautiful scenery and great outdoors. It is as a very cold country but I think it is a matter of getting used to it and finding a way to enjoy it. With the right clothes it is possible to enjoy many outdoor activities at any time of the year.

When applying for universities, what stood out to you about UiA?

UiA offers an excellent English program in development studies with a global perspective. When I did some research I did not find anything that offered as much as the University of Agder. Kristiansand is a great city for students in general and kind to international students. It has quality in education and a cozy atmosphere. And Norway is a wonderful country!

What were your first impressions upon arrival?

I arrived in the midst of a pandemic, yet I was met by very collaborative, friendly people from the University who guided me and made me feel more comfortable and secure. 

What do you think about your course in particular?

The bachelor in global development studies provides extensive knowledge about different world problems: social, economic, political, climate. The programme enables us to understand how to address global issues and also how to make a positive impact. By being in an international environment we have the opportunity to participate in discussions with our colleagues, interact multiculturally, and understand different points of view referring to the topics covered in class. The programme also provides us the necessary tools to prepare for work life.

What do you like about Kristiansand? 

So far, my favorite part is feeling safe when I walk outside because I enjoy the outdoors. I really like doing sports and I think this place has a lot to offer. I have not had the opportunity to see many places around because of COVID-19 but I think that so far one of my favorite places in Kristiansand is the centre because I love Norwegian architecture and it is fascinating to see the buildings when I walk around the city.

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

Some people say that Norwegians are not very sociable, but I have been fortunate to meet very kind, helpful, smiling, friendly people. I think that was unexpected for me but it makes me feel very happy.

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

First, I would like to share with Colombia that the UiA has an incredible campus, the infrastructure of the university is wonderful. It has spacious classrooms, everything is very organised and easily accessible by students, it generates an excellent educational environment. The University of Agder is recognised for its high quality in education. In addition to providing the student with a great study environment, there are departments focused not only on the academic part of the student but also on their social development.

About the programme I would like to share that I really like the teaching methodology. The teacher-student relationship is close, which facilitates communication.

Global Development Studies is an excellent opportunity to learn more about the world, be an active participant in change, it is a career with a wide field of work and can be approached from different points of view following your own ideals.

Do you think UiA has given you any unique opportunities? 

UiA has given me an excellent experience. It is giving me the opportunity to expand my knowledge at the same time to interact with my colleagues from different parts of the world, get to know other cultures, and learn a new language. Living in a place very different from my country of origin, being part of a different socio-cultural environment and actively participating in it.