As an international researcher here for only one year, I can only speak on my experiences. However, like my friend Chiara, I found it challenging to fit the in-person Norsk classes offered by our home university into my workday. So now, In addition to my weekly visit to the library to attend Norsk practice, I also practice speaking with my online teachers almost every other evening.
Additionally, I am thankful to have met many of my dear Norwegian friends from language exchange mobile applications. I especially like writing, correcting, and speaking paragraphs on animals (pictured). These platforms are the perfect way to work on fundamental language skills with native speakers. If I had not had these early virtual interactions with native Norwegians before arriving, I would not be as adept at picking up the language while living in the country itself; this applies particularly to the new words and sounds in the Norsk alphabet: å, ø, and æ.
My desire to reach an intermediate level of Nosk wasn’t so much a motivation for my career, because I may not find an opportunity to stay in Norway. Instead, I want to make the most of my Fulbright time and and make as many connections as possible. I am grateful for the Røde Kors classes and volunteers because I hear interesting stories from so many different people every week, I meet many new friends, and I learn a new language at the same time.
