Embarking on a PhD journey is a transformative experience. Two PhD scholars at the NHH Norwegian School of Economics, Ingrid Emilie Flessum Ringstad and Silas Braun, share their thoughts, offering a look into the life of a PhD student in Norway.
Why Norway and Bergen?
For Ingrid, the decision to pursue her PhD in Norway, specifically in Bergen, was driven by the region’s stunning natural beauty and the promise of a balanced work-life. She highlights Bergen’s easy access to outdoor activities like hiking and swimming in the fjords, as well as a vibrant cultural scene. Ingrid appreciates the Norwegian approach to PhD studies, where scholars are treated as employees, earning a respectable salary that affords a comfortable adult life.
Silas reports similar sentiments, emphasizing the financial stability provided by NHH’s PhD program. He appreciates the unique combination of being a student and earning a living wage, describing it as having “the best of both worlds.”
Focus on Life at NHH
Ingrid speaks highly of the supportive and intellectually stimulating environment at NHH. She values the accessibility of knowledgeable colleagues, including fellow PhD scholars, post-docs, and professors, especially when navigating the challenges of research. The presence of experts in her field of climate and environmental economics offers her numerous opportunities for collaboration and discussion. Ingrid also points out the vibrant social life at NHH, with frequent events and gatherings that enhance the overall PhD experience.
Silas emphasizes the excellent working relationship with supervisors, allowing him to collaborate with established experts in his field. He also appreciates the camaraderie and fun environment among the PhD students, suggesting that the time spent at NHH could be “four of the best years of your life.”
Unique opportunities as a PhD Scholar
Ingrid appreciates the freedom and responsibility that comes with being a PhD student at NHH. She enjoys the autonomy to design and structure her work, focusing on topics that genuinely interest her. This independence also extends to attending international conferences, workshops, and courses, adding to her professional development. Ingrid highlights the lack of mundane tasks like aligning PowerPoint slides, stressing the focus on meaningful research work.
Silas, too, finds the PhD journey at NHH rewarding, with opportunities to grow academically and personally. His experience reflects a mix of academic rigor and enjoyable student life, and he invites potential candidates to consider Bergen for their doctoral studies.
Join the journey at NHH
Ingrid and Silas’s experiences at NHH Norwegian School of Economics encapsulate the essence of pursuing a PhD in Norway. It’s not just about academic growth but also about personal development, financial stability, and being part of a supportive and lively community.
For those considering a PhD, NHH offers an environment where scholarly pursuits and life’s pleasures blend seamlessly.