ROMAN GAMECOCKS:

Jax State Is A Nordsjo Family Tradition

BY BUFFY LOCKETTE

It’s not uncommon for the children of Jax State alumni to follow their parents to campus from Rome. But the journey is usually a one-hour drive across the Georgia state line, not a Transatlantic flight from Italy.

Dr. Egil Nordsjo, originally from Sweden, lived in Jax State's International House from 1978-1979. He said it was one of the best years of his life.

“It's difficult to sort out the best memories, but I guess getting to know all these boys and girls from different parts of the world with so many different backgrounds was the most exciting thing,” Dr. Nordsjo said. “I am still in touch with many of them.”

When he returned home, he earned a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree with a special interest in implant surgery. He and his wife, Stefania, moved to her native Rome, Italy, where he now performs dental implant surgery. He enjoyed his experience on Jax State’s campus so much that he sent his sons, Fredrik and Patrik, over to participate in the International House program.

Fredrik lived in the International House in 20151016. He said the program taught him to be more understanding of other cultures.

“It meant a lot for me – not knowing so much about Asian, South American and African cultures – to learn about other ways of thinking, dealing with problems and life while living together,” Fredrik said.

“I truly believe that’s beautiful; that’s the one of the purposes of the program.”

Fredrik initially followed in this father's footsteps when he returned home, enrolling in dental school. He realized it wasn't the right path for him and is now studying economics in Rome. He is scheduled to graduate this year.

The latest Nordsjo to cross the Atlantic is Patrik, who has spent the past academic year on Jax State’s campus. Dr. Nordsjo moved him into the International House at the end of last summer.

"Being the third makes me really proud and happy to continue the tradition," Patrik said. "For many years, especially when my brother was there, I've heard just good stuff about Jacksonville and the International Program. When they accepted me, I didn't hesitate one second.”

Patrik has enjoyed many of the International House traditions his father and brother did before him, like the annual UN Day Tea. He will return home soon, with not only a new global perspective, but a common bond to share with his family.

“It makes me smile to think that we all share a very similar but not identical experience,” Fredrik said. “I am always going to be grateful to my father for recommending the program, and to Jax State for giving me the chance to live it.”