NORAM SCHOLARSHIPS UNITED STATES, CANADA AND NORWAY
YEARBOOK 2016 WITH ANNUAL REPORT 2015 THE NORWAY-AMERICA ASSOCIATION — NORGE-AMERIKA FORENINGEN SINCE 1919
KEY FIGURES 2015
FORTYFIVE TOTAL RECIPIENTS 45 NORWEGIAN MASTER/PHD TO THE US 25 RECIPIENTS NORWEGIAN BACHELOR STUDENTS TO THE U.S. 13 RECIPIENTS AMERICAN MASTER/PHD TO NORWAY 5 RECIPIENTS ALF AND BERGLJOT KOLFLAT FUND FOR ARCHITECTS AND ENGINEERS 1 RECIPIENT AMBASSADOR ROBERT D. STUART JR. FELLOWSHIP 1 RECIPIENT
FOUR MILLION FIVE HUNDRED EIGHTY SIX THOUSAND SEVEN HUNDRED AND FIFTY-FIVE TOTAL SCHOLARSHIP USD 550,755 NOK 4 586 755 SCHOLARSHIPS FOR NORWEGIANS MASTER AND PHD TOTAL USD 300,339 NOK 2 500 865 AVERAGE SCHOLARSHIP USD 12,013 NOK 100 034 SCHOLARSHIPS FOR NORWEGIANS BACHELOR TOTAL USD 210,000 NOK 1 748 628 AVERAGE SCHOLARSHIP USD 16,154 NOK 134 510
TWO THOUSAND TWO HUNDRED AND SIXTY-FOUR HELP GIVEN BY NORAM AND COLLEGE COUNSELING E-MAILS 841 PHONE CALLS 190 INDIVIDUALLY BOOKED APPOINTMENTS 65 PRESENT AT EVENTS, FAIRS AND PRESENTATIONS 18 NUMBER OF PEOPLE MET AT EVENTS, FAIRS AND PRESENTATIONS 1150
CONTENT NORAM SCHOLARSHIPS What is NORAM? 3 What a difference a year makes 5 Bachelor studies in the U.S. 6 Study or work in Canada 8 Master/PhD studies in the U.S. 10 American students in Norway 12 Alf and Bergljot Kolflat Fund 14 Other Scholarships in the U.S. 15 Ambassador Robert D. Stuart jr. Fellowship 16 Information and counseling for studies in North America 17 EducationUSA Norway 18
NORAM IN 2015 Reports from the field 2015 21 Scholarship recipient overview 2015 26 Annual Report 2015 31 Financial Statement 2015 37 Our sponsors 38 The Norway-America Association 2015–2016 43
WHAT IS NORAM? NORWAY-AMERICA ASSOCIATION NORAM is a non-profit organization with the purpose of supporting and encouraging educational exchange between Norway and North America. Since 1919, the organization has supported more than 5 400 students studying in Norway, Canada and the U.S. The Norway-America Association receives no public funding, and is financed by private members and sponsors. Scholarships are awarded annually from several funds and endowments that NORAM administrates. We also work with organizations in the U.S., such as the American-Scandinavian Foundation and Thanks to Scandinavia, and we help administrate applications for their scholarships and grants.
Mission
ABOUT THIS YEARBOOK Contributors to the Annual Report Hanne K. Aaberg Liv Elin Hjelmeland Klara Wade Mari Strømsvåg NORAM students with stories and photos Contact us/Publisher Rådhusgaten 23B 0158 Oslo, Norway +47 23 35 71 60 info@noram.no Org. nr: NO 940 469 643 Twitter: @NorgeAmerika Facebook: www.facebook.com/ NorwayAmericaAssociation Instagram: norgeamerikaforeningen Graphic design: Munch design Printing: PJ-trykk Cover photo: Charlott Sandor Johanssen, Vegard Ritland, Harald Overå
The Norway-America Association (NORAM) works to strengthen the ties between Norway and North America through higher education and culture. NORAM’s goal is to provide funding to give Norwegians and Americans the opportunity to study or pursue research in North America and Norway, and to be a part of an extensive Norwegian-American network. This way NORAM helps build competence, facilitate exchange, encourage international network and mutual understanding on both sides of the Atlantic.
We have scholarships ȲȲ Scholarships for Norwegian students’ master, PhD and post-doc studies in the U.S. ȲȲ Scholarships for American students to study in Norway ȲȲ Partnership with American universities for bachelor scholarships ȲȲ Scholarships for various academic and practical stays in the U.S.
We can help with: ȲȲ Guidance and information about studying in the U.S. ȲȲ Information for visas for training and intern programs
Photo: Jørgen Gomnæs / Det kongelige hoff
WHAT A DIFFERENCE A YEAR MAKES It has been a year full of milestones: We have established a functional NORAM database with records of all our students since 1919 – more than 5000 alumni! This has been on our wish list for years, and it will be an invaluable source of information as we’re starting our history project in time for the 100 years anniversary in 2019. Since last summer, we have rekindled our relationship to Canada through a number of activities, including a visit to Canada and participation in student events in Norway together with the Canadian Embassy and ANSA. We are also proud to announce that University of British Columbia is now one of our partner schools. NORAM was also made official partner of Education USA, a U.S. Department of State network of student advising centers in more than 170 countries. This will give us access to accurate, comprehensive, and current information, adding an extra quality to our student information and advising activities. NORAM is a non-profit and receives no public funding. Our activities are based on volunteer work and donations from our generous sponsors and members, many of whom have been our supporters for years, some even for generations. We are thankful to our loyal sponsors, and to our excellent scholarship committee who puts in hours every spring, reading and evaluating applications and transcripts. And, of course, we could not do without our dedicated board members who always keep NORAM’s best interests in their minds and continue to motivate us to improve and develop. It’s been a good year!
International experience is a must on any newly graduated student’s resume these days. The world is more interconnected than ever before, and few people go through their workday without reading or speaking English. Studying abroad is an excellent way to gain valuable language skills and to grow a personal network, which with time will span the whole world and within many industries. Norway’s Minister of Education and Research, Torbjørn Røe Isaksen, has informally suggested making international exchange mandatory for all students in higher education. Having international exchange the rule and not the exception would be an impressive method to give student valuable academic and life experience. The Norway-America Association (NORAM) has since 1919 promoted cultural and academic exchange between Norway and North America, and the association is thrilled if Røe Isaksen’s proposal will encourage and facilitate for more students to go to North America. Both Canada and the U.S. have worldclass professors, institutions and research facilities, and NORAM will continue to award scholarship to some of our best students. Together we can improve resumes and prepare them for an international environment. Dear students – we wish you all the best. We hope that you make the most of your time abroad, both academically and socially. Come back a better person with your unique experience, and contribute to the society. We also urge you to get involved, and support organizations such as NORAM when you can. Together, more students will have a chance to study in North America.
Hanne K. Aaberg, Executive Director The Norway America Association
Liv Elin Hjelmeland, President The Norway America Association
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SCHOLARSHIP FOR BACHELOR STUDIES IN THE US
College in the U.S. can be very expensive, but NORAM has made it easier for you. By working with selected universities in the U.S. we can offer you a simpler way to admission and scholarship opportunities, so you can study where you want! Students with general university admission certification (generell studiekompetanse) can apply to a university through NORAM’s simplified application. The application is both for scholarship and for the
school, making it simpler and easier to apply to college. The same application can be sent to three of our partner institutions free of charge. Find out where you want to go to college, and you can receive: ȲȲ Sophomore standing, finish college in three years instead of four ȲȲ Scholarship towards your tuition, ranging from $2,500 – $26,000 ȲȲ Waived application fees ȲȲ Exemption from english or college admissions tests (not all institutions)
NORAM PARTNER INSTITUTIONS NORAM is currently working with the following colleges and universities: ȲȲ California Lutheran University, California ȲȲ Central Washington University, Washington ȲȲ Clark University, Massachusetts ȲȲ Concordia College, Minnesota ȲȲ Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Florida ȲȲ Luther College, Iowa ȲȲ Michigan Technology University, Michigan ȲȲ North Park University, Illinois ȲȲ Pacific Lutheran University, Washington ȲȲ Southern New Hampshire University, New Hampshire ȲȲ St. Olaf College, Minnesota ȲȲ SUNY Plattsburgh, New York ȲȲ University of St. Thomas, Minnesota Check our website www.noram.no for application deadlines and school updates.
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NORAM Yearbook 2016
APPLICATION MADE EASY Opposite: Dining hall at St. Olaf College in Northfield, MN From left to bottom: Harald Overå is a student at Pacific Lutheran University. He travelled a lot his first year at PLU, here in San Fransisco, CA. Emilie Gylseth had just started at North Park University when NORAM visited in September 2015 Director of Scholarship Programs visited several universities and colleges in september 2015. Here she is together with Norwegian students at Concordia College, Moorhead, MN
1. Complete the NORAM application 2. Submit transcripts from high school and other higher education you have completed 3. Two recommendations from teachers/professors and/or employers 4. Copy of your passport (signature/data page) 5. Preliminary Statement of Financial Support (from Lånekassen) 6. Finally, send your application to NORAM Some schools require language tests (TOEFL/IELTS) or admissions tests such as the SAT/ACT, or they may require you to fill out additional information after you have applied. Check our website noram.no for more information and to download the application.
BOOK A MEETING WITH US Want help to choose a college or have questions about how you can apply? Book your information meeting with NORAM today, and we can discuss your college future! We can help you find your perfect school, either NORAM partner institutions or any of the other 4,600 colleges to choose from in the U.S. We will give you the best tools to make the application process easier, all for free. Meeting can be through phone or in our office, located in Oslo. Meetings can be booked at: www.noram.no/veiledning
NORAM Yearbook 2016
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STUDY OR WORK IN CANADA
of Canada to attract students and youth to gain work experience in Canada. Please see noram.no/canada for more information. Study opportunities in Canada There are 98 universities or colleges in Canada, with more than 1,7 million students. The level of education in Canada is high, and many research universities are world renowned. University of British Columbia, McGill University, University of Toronto, University of Alberta are some of the highest ranked universities in Canada.
5 GOOD REASONS FOR STUDYING IN CANADA
Canada is the world’s second largest country, and has the world’s longest coastline. From the Atlantic Ocean in the east to Pacific Ocean in the west, Canada covers six time zones. The country is divided into 10 provinces and three territories. The largest city in Canada is Toronto with more than 4 million inhabitants. Other large and well known cities are Vancouver, Ottawa, Montreal and Québec. Canada is an exciting country with lot to offer, regardless if you are studying or working. With close proximity to nature from urban cities, there will be many opportunities to stay active with biking, skiing, climbing, sailing or other activities. Canada has also two official languages and you can practice and improve both English and French better if you chose to study or work in Canada. Work opportunities in Canada International Experience Canada (IEC) provides young individuals the opportunity to travel and work in Canada. The program is offered by the government
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NORAM Yearbook 2016
1. Cheaper tuition than other English-speaking countries 2. High academic level 3. Exciting and unique programs and majors 4. Work alongside your studies 5. Get work experience in Canada after your degree At this time, NORAM does not have scholarship available for studies in Canada. We can help with information about universities, scholarship and practical matters. For more information about studying in Canada, please see our website noram.no/canada
BOOK A MEETING WITH US Want help to choose a Canadian college or have questions about how you can apply? Book your information meeting with NORAM today, and we can discuss your college future! We will give you the best tools to make the application process easier, all for free. Meeting can be through phone or in our office, located in Oslo. Meetings can be booked at: www.noram.no/veiledning
Opposite: Director of Scholarship Programs, Mari Strømsvåg, visited Canada in November. Here she is on the Hornblower, Niagara Falls. Right: Toronto Harbour. Photo: iStock/Olddays Below: University of British Columbia, Vancouver Campus. Photo: UBC
UNIVERSITY OF BRITISH COLUMBIA Interested in studying in Canada? The Norway-America Association is working with University of British Columbia (UBC) and can help you with your application. The University of British Columbia was awarded in 2016 to be the most international university in North-America, and is a very well-known research institution. They have two campuses, one in Vancouver and one in Okanagan. Students at UBC can choose to participate in over 300 student organizations and study one of their 200 bachelor majors. UBC promotes active lifestyles, and their location in British Columbia offers easy access to fantastic sports and wildlife experiences, as well as skiing at world famous Whistler ski arena. Did you know that UBC is on the extra stipendlist (tilleggstipendliste) from Lånekassen? All
students attending UBC will receive extra stipend to pay for tuition, in addition to the loans and stipends. UBC offers 650 merit based scholarship for international students, and several Norwegian students are awarded a scholarship every year. Deadline: January 31st, 2017 How to apply: noram.no/university-of-british-columbia
NORAM Yearbook 2016
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SCHOLARSHIP FOR MASTER AND PHD IN THE UNITED STATES
The Norway–America Association offers scholarships for Norwegian master, PhD and post-doc students to study and research in the United States. Some scholarships are awarded directly from NORAM, others are awarded by our partner organizations, such as American–Scandinavian Foundation and Thanks to Scandinavia. All applicants are automatically evaluated for all scholarships available. Scholarships are offered to Norwegian students/researchers to study in the U.S. to gain experience, strengthening competences, facilitate international exchange, encourage networking and increase understanding between the two countries. Between 25 and 35 scholarships are awarded annually, with amounts ranging from $2,000 to $20,000. The scholarships are intended to cover costs beyond what Lånekassen and other funding sources cover, and are awarded based on merit and need. Between 65 and 110 students apply every year, and the applications are thoroughly evaluated academically by NORAM’s Scholarship Committee and academic consultants. NORAM and our partner organizations award scholarships through several scholarship funds. Most of the awards are open to all students, some are geographically or academically constrained, and are awarded to certain students. Some of the specific requirements are (the list is non-exhaustive): ȲȲ University of Miami, in business, engineering, or natural sciences ȲȲ Northern California ȲȲ Natural sciences ȲȲ Finance/economics ȲȲ Engineering ȲȲ International Affairs ȲȲ Human Rights All applicants are automatically evaluated for all available scholarships.
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NORAM Yearbook 2016
TERMS OF THE AWARDS Applicant ȲȲ Must be Norwegian citizen ȲȲ Must hold a bachelor degree or similar before the application deadline (or before the end of the year) ȲȲ Applicants who are on a 5-year track for a degree (law/civil engineers etc.) must complete at least three years of their program before the end of 2015
Degree/Program ȲȲ Applicants don’t have to be accepted to a program at the time of the deadline, but acceptance letter/ letter of invitation must be provided before the scholarship is awarded. ȲȲ Scholarships are for semester/academic year, exchange or full degree, master, PhD and Post-Doc ȲȲ Must attend a regionally accredited university in the U.S., online education is not funded
Period, length of stay and award ȲȲ The scholarships follow academic year of August to May, and are awarded for one year at a time ȲȲ Minimum stay in the U.S. is three months ȲȲ Maximum receive two awards through the program ȲȲ Applicants who have been awarded scholarship from the U.S.–Norway Fulbright Foundation, Aker Scholarships or Norwegian Research Council for the same application period, will not be considered
APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS Check NORAM’s website for more information before starting the application process. ȲȲ Electronic application and application fee ȲȲ Project description ȲȲ Resume ȲȲ Budget ȲȲ Three recommendation letters ȲȲ Transcripts from all higher education attended ȲȲ Admission letter/Letter of Invitation (if already received/currently attending)
Opposite: Studying abroad is more than just books and exams, here with Svenn Marius Husem Wroldsen and his friends at a relay. Above: Charlott Sandor Johanssen delivered the opening speech at the Pardee Graduate Conference 2016 Above: Sather Tower is a famous sight at UC Berkeley
Deadline: December 18, for the following academic year. noram.no/graduate-stipender
NORAM Yearbook 2016
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SCHOLARSHIPS FOR AMERICANS TO STUDY IN NORWAY
The purpose of the scholarships is to provide financial support for Americans to study in Norway. By supporting post-graduate study or research in areas of mutual importance to Norway and the United States we hope to bring the two countries closer. By awarding scholarships to American students or researchers, knowledge and understanding will increase, and it will strengthen the ties of friendship between the two countries. Every year, we offer five to ten scholarships to American students, based on merit and need. The amounts vary from 10,000 NOK to 40,000 NOK. The size of the individual grants will depend on the research subject, purpose and the intended length of stay in Norway. Scholarship funds: the Norwegian Marshall Fund and the Thanksgiving Fund. For more information about studying in Norway visit www.studyinnorway.no
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NORAM Yearbook 2016
TERMS OF THE AWARDS Applicant ȲȲ Must be American citizen, planning to study/or currently studying in Norway ȲȲ Must have completed a bachelor degree before the application deadline Education ȲȲ Scholarships are only for graduate level studies, both exchange and whole degree in Norway. Online courses does not qualify ȲȲ The project description must be of academic merit, and the project must be feasible within the framework proposed ȲȲ Students can apply without being accepted to an institution before the application deadline, but must submit documentation of admission/invitation if awarded a scholarship ȲȲ The project/academic field must be of mutual benefit to the two countries
Period and length ȲȲ The scholarships are given within the academic year (August–May), and are awarded one year at a time. Keep in mind that one can only be awarded scholarship two times ȲȲ The program period has to be minimum 3 months ȲȲ Applicants who are awarded/have applied for funding from other sources for the same application period, must notify NORAM
Application requirements Check NORAM’s website for updates before starting the application process ȲȲ Electronic application with application fee ȲȲ Updated resume/CV ȲȲ Personal statement ȲȲ Transcript from all universities attended ȲȲ Budget for the proposed scholarship period ȲȲ Two letters of recommendations ȲȲ Letter of admission/invitation to your host institution if already received
Above: Haley Peterson outside a colorful shop. Norway have fantastic mountains for those who like to climb. Here Ross Wetherbee was in Jotunheimen, high up on the Stor Skagastølstind. Opposite: Ross Wetherbee travelled a lot around Norway. Here he was in Nissedal, with Hægefjell in the background. Haley Peterson studied Costume Design at Oslo National Academy of the Arts.
Deadline: April 1st, for the following academic year. noram.no/en/scholarship-americans/
NORAM Yearbook 2016
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ALF OG BERGLJOT KOLFLAT FUND
This scholarship fund was a generous gift to the Norway-America Association by Alf and Bergljot Kolflat from Wilmette in Illinois. The fund was created in 1976, and has since supported many engineers and architects for study tours to the U.S.. The scholarship is awarded to Norwegian engineers and architects with a minimum of three years of relevant work experience. It is not intended for regular academic work, but for practical orientation and to gain experience, and may be used for attending a specific course, conference, seminars, and independent or organized research tours. It may also be used on visits to industrial plants and companies. The scholarship will not be awarded retroactively, and the trip can’t start before the scholarship committee has concluded their evaluation.
FACTS Scholarship amount: Up to 30,000 NOK Number of awards: 1–2 per year Application deadline: April 1st or November 1st.
APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS ȲȲ ȲȲ ȲȲ ȲȲ ȲȲ ȲȲ
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Application form and application fee Updated resume/CV Transcripts from all higher education Two letters of recommendation Copies of invitations to seminars etc (if applicable) Check noram.no for updates before starting the application process
NORAM Yearbook 2016
Alf and Bergljot Kolflat donated in 1976 a fund to support Norwegian architects and engineers. More than 65 people have been awarded this fellowship which celebrates 40 years in 2016.
OTHER SCHOLARSHIPS AND WORK OPPORTUNITIES IN THE U.S.
The Norway-America Association administrates several other scholarships for stays in the U.S. Some scholarships are awarded directly from NORAM or other partner organizations, such as the AmericanScandinavian Foundations (ASF).
VISITING LECTURESHIPS Deadline: February 15th Amount: ȲȲ $20,000 teaching/research stipend ȲȲ $5000 travel stipend for lecture appearances outside of host institution in the U.S. ȲȲ J-1 visa sponsorship as a short-term scholar (up to 6 months) through the ASF Visitor Exchange Program Lectureships should be in the area of contemporary studies with an emphasis on one of five areas: Public Policy, Conflict Resolution, Environmental Studies, Multiculturalism or Healthcare. Visit noram.no for application requirements. The American-Scandinavian Foundation invites U.S. colleges and universities to apply for funding to host a visiting lecturer from Norway or Sweden. The awards are granted for one semester, and should fall within an academic year. The competition is open to all American colleges and universities. The award is appropriate not just for Scandinavian studies departments, but for any department or inter-disciplinary program with an interest in incorporating a Scandinavian focus into its course offerings.
THE EXCHANGE VISITOR (J VISA): INTERNSHIP AND TRAINING An internship in the United States is a unique opportunity to gain professional experience, learn about Ameri can business techniques and build beneficial relationships. An internship will also enhance your resume and strengthen your appeal to future employers. The American-Scandinavian Foundation’s Internship & Training Program, designated by the U.S. Department of State, provides Scandinavian students and recent graduates with J-1 visa sponsorship which is necessary to pursue an internship in the United States. The ASF provides essential guidance through the J-1 visa application process. ASF ensures that you are qualified to receive a J-1 visa and then provide all of the necessary documents for your interview with the U.S. Embassy. ASF also provides continuous support throughout the program. Once you have secured an internship position in the United States, you may apply for visa sponsorship through ASF. You will need to complete our online application and your host firm will need to submit documents to ASF. When your application is approved, you will schedule and attend a visa interview at the U.S. embassy in Norway. The process takes approximately 6–8 weeks from the time you begin your application until you receive your J-1 intern visa. Visit noram.no for for more information and links to American-Scandinavian Foundation’s website for eligibility requirements.
NORAM Yearbook 2016
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AMBASSADOR ROBERT D. STUART JR. FELLOWSHIP The Ambassador Robert D. Stuart Jr. Fellowship is awarded to young, politically active Norwegians under the age of 35 in order to spend a semester taking classes at the George Washington University and intern on Capitol Hill or in a think tank. The fellowship is rotated between the political parties of Norway, and each party nominates its own candidate. The fellows are then selected through a competitive process by the Secretary General of the Norway-America Association and the
Norwegian Atlantic Committee. The two organizations administer the fellowship, while the U.S. ambassador to Norway formally accepts the fellow. The fellowship is normally offered once a year, and a scholarship to cover costs of living in the U.S. is included. Fellows must be Norwegian citizens, with a demonstrated commitment and an interest in working in Norwegian politics, public administration or public service. The applicant must hold a bachelor degree and be sufficiently proficient in English to study and work in the U.S. Ambassador Stuart passed away on May 8th, 2014. He and his wife made a lasting contribution to future ties between the U.S. and Norway by establishing the fellowship. Please see noram.no for more information.
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NORAM Yearbook 2016
Right: Sylvi Listhaug worked for Mark Kirk when she was a Stuart fellow in 2005. In September 2015 Listhaug met up with him again, this time as Minister of Agriculture Left: Stein Hernes, Stuart fellow in 1996, now works for NATO. He met with President Obama in April 2016
QUESTIONS ABOUT STUDYING IN THE U.S. OR CANADA?
Do you want to study abroad, but don’t know what options you have? NORAM offers free, high quality counseling for everyone interested in studying in North America, and you can book your appointment today! There are almost 4 600 colleges and universities in the U.S. and close to 100 higher education institutions in Canada – how do you choose which schools to apply for?
BOOK TODAY Book your appointment today and get ready to study abroad! The appointment can be held in our office in Oslo, over the phone or on Skype. noram.no/veiledning
WE CAN: ȲȲ help you find schools that fit your interests and studies ȲȲ explain SAT/ACT and TOEFL/IELTS ȲȲ identify schools where you can get scholarships ȲȲ help you complete your college applications ȲȲ many more things Together, we can find the school with the right fit for you, and make sure the program is what you are looking for. Application process can be very overwhelming, but NORAM can give you the tools to make it hassle-free and motivating!
FAQ ȲȲ ȲȲ ȲȲ ȲȲ ȲȲ
Do I have to take the SAT? It is so expensive, how can I afford college? Where should I study? Does Lånekassen support this program? I’ve been accepted – now what?
Mari Strømsvåg, the Director of Scholarship Programs, can answer most of your questions and will help you achieve your dream of studying in North America
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EDUCATIONUSA NORWAY
EducationUSA is a U.S. Department of State network of over 400 international student advising centers in more than 170 countries. In February 2016, NORAM became one of three advising centers in Norway, together with the U.S. Embassy in Norway and the U.S.-Norway Fulbright Foundation. The three offices are partnered up as EducationUSA Norway, and will be the working together to promote higher education in the U.S. The network promotes U.S. higher education to students around the world by offering accurate, comprehensive, and current information about opportunities to study at accredited postsecondary institutions in the United States. EducationUSA also provides services to the U.S. higher education community to help institutional leaders meet their recruitment and cam-
pus internationalization goals. EducationUSA centers are located in U.S. embassies and consulates, Fulbright commissions, bi-national centers, universities, and non-profit organizations. NORAM will get training in the field of student advising and be a part of a large network of experts. Becoming a partner to EducationUSA was a natural step for NORAM, and together with its partners will continue to offer high quality advising to students interested studying in the U.S. EducationUSA Norway is focusing its community outreach through social media in order to reach the potential students. The group is also prioritizing fairs and other events in Oslo and Akershus in addition to longer trips around the country. We will arrange events geared towards interested students, and be a source of good quality information.
What can EducationUSA Norway help with? EducationUSA Norway can advise any student in finding the “right fit” for their higher education. The network offers individual counseling sessions, utilizes social media to promote education and hosts events highlighting American education. Contact us if you have questions about how to find the right school for you, funding or scholarship opportunities or any other questions related to education in the U.S. Contact us Book individual counseling: noram.no/veiledning Follow us Facebook facebook.com/EducationUSANorway Instagram @educationusa_norway
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NORAM Yearbook 2016
Above: EducationUSA Norway team. From left Evan Kvelland (US Embassy), Maria Diakova (Fulbright Norway) and Mari Strømsvåg (NORAM). Opposite: Executive Director of Norway-America Association Hanne K. Aaberg and Luke Schtele, Acting Public Affairs Officer at the U.S. Embassy Oslo signed the Memorandum of Understanding regarding EducationUSA February 2nd, 2016
NORAM Yearbook 2016
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Above from left: Alex Blackwood & Simen Østmo looking at stone tools. Vegard Ritland at the pier in Santa Barbara, CA Hallgeir Sjåstad travelled to New York while he was studying in the U.S. Andrea Dahlum and friends participated in the Color Run. Who says that a class only has to been inside? Audun Grimstad and his classmates utilized a cemetery for their drawing class. Harald Overå and a friend surfing at Leadbetter beach in Santa Barbara, CA Inga Ingulfsen in the middle of a panel discussion. Vegard Ritland on an iconic lifeguard hut. Meriam Braanaas studied film at USC. Here she is behind camera on her own film.
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NORAM Yearbook 2016
REPORTS FROM THE FIELD Research shows that experience in other countries makes a person more flexible, creative and a more complex thinker. Study and research abroad is often a person’s first academic experience in a different country, where perspectives and beliefs are changed or reinforced. NORAM is proud to enable students and researchers to get this experience through scholarships and college advising. Every year we ask our students to reflect on their time in Norway or the U.S. and send us a report about their time, their studies and how they experienced a new country. We hope that you will enjoy their reports from the field, as much as we do.
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NORAM Yearbook 2016
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VISUAL ARTS
POLITICAL SCIENCE
AUDUN GRIMSTAD
MATHIAS ORMESTAD FRENDEM
Scholarship The Andrew E. and G. Norman Wigeland Fund, ASF Field & level Design, MFA University School of Visual Arts, New York
Scholarship The Norway-America Friendship Fund, NORAM Field & level Political Science, PhD University Harvard University, Massachusetts
My decision to apply to School of Visual Arts was based on my experiences here as an exchange student in the fall of 2013. At that time, I didn’t know what to expect or have any idea how it would come to alter the course of my studies. It became clear that being in New York City puts you in the middle of everything, and if your goal is to pursue a career in a creative field, this is it. I wanted to pursue a degree at this school in this city because of the opportunities it provides. Colleges like School of Visual Arts are known for bringing in professionals from the industry and putting the students in touch with them. This can be as guest speakers, teachers or thesis advisors. While this is also the case at my former college in Oslo, major companies are situated here. As an illustrator, you want to be in the same city as the art director of Penguin Publishing or the New York Times. This is basically the holy grail of book and editorial illustration. Another major reason for coming here was my desire to study alongside skilled students from all parts of the world. The program is limited to 20 students per class and those admitted are highly driven and motivated to work. Since I got access to my studio space at SVA, I’ve been working an average of 12 hours, 7 days a week. The result of this is a greatly improved portfolio, and an overall increasingly professionalized mindset. It becomes clear that the amount of talent present in this city is immense and the competition hard. It made me work harder than ever before.
I am now spending the final year of my DPhil as a research fellow at the Belfer Center of Science and International Affairs at the Harvard Kennedy School. My fellowship attracts top PhD students working on International Security from all over the world, famous professors, military officers, and senior policymakers, all spending one or two years at Harvard. Our main event is a weekly seminar, where everyone has to present at least once a year. The level of feedback is excellent, but intense. The fellows ask as challenging questions as possible, and offer high-quality constructive criticisms. While this feels daunting at first, it provides invaluable feedback to improve and defend research ideas. In addition, there are lots of informal meetings where we discuss academic matters, or just daily events, in particular the presidential primaries. My time at Harvard has proven extremely valuable both academically and personally. My research has developed much further than I ever thought possible. I am two weeks away from completing my dissertation and have submitted two papers to top IR journals. I have also acquired professional connections and friendships that will prove invaluable to me as I eventually return to Norway to establish myself as an academic. I am grateful to NORAM for contributing to making all of this possible.
NORAM Yearbook 2016
COMMUNICATION/GRAPHIC DESIGN
PSYCHOLOGY
LENA EMILIE GYLSETH
IRIS MULDERS STEINE
Scholarship Undergraduate Scholarship Program Field & level Communication/Graphic Design, Bachelor University North Park University, Chicago
Scholarship Norway House Foundation Fund, ASF Field & level Psychology, PhD University University of California, Berkeley
My first night in Chicago I took a walk by the lake. As I stood there with my toes in the sand, looking out over the Chicago skyline glimmering in the water, I knew I had come to the right place. The next day I visited North Park University for the first time. What then seemed so big and overwhelming turned out to be a small, safe campus, that is now my second home. I was welcomed to North Park with open arms by the close-knit community here. Because it is a smaller campus, it allows you to build close relationships with both students and professors. As a result, you never feel lost in the crowd and all your efforts are recognized and appreciated. At North Park people want to see you succeed, and they are both willing and able to lend a hand in that process. As for Chicago, this vibrant and dynamic city, has – despite its terribly cold winter months – already left me with so many fun and memorable experiences. As a Graphic Design student I have found much interest in the cultural aspect of the city. It’s artsy, hip, and the very atmosphere of Chicago inspires me every day. I believe that all the experiences that Chicago and North Park has to offer will open up many doors for me in the future, and I’m very happy about my decision to study in the US. However, I would not be here without the help and support I’ve received from NORAM along the way. So, to any prospective students considering studying in the US, take the step. And take it with NORAM. You will not regret it.
What I had not anticipated, was all the additional joys the UC Berkeley stay would bring to my life. To cut a long story short, UC Berkeley is an intellectual and cultural paradise on earth. A glance at the weekly calendar of events will make any intellectually or artistically driven mind melt like Norwegian ice under the Californian sun. I have been continuously thrilled about the many inspiring lectures, seminars, beautiful concerts and performing arts events taking place here every week. Another wonderful thing about Berkeley is that the sun almost always shines here. For people like me who think and work best when outside, the California climate has literally been a door opener. The UC Berkeley campus has plenty of geographical gems that have served the function as my office throughout days and occasional nights of reading and writing. I cannot think of a better working environment. It is also inspiring outside of the campus gates and Berkeley is full of cafés. Berkeley cafés are in fact not like other cafés: cafés here are crowded with professors, post-docs, PhD-students and undergraduates who are reading, writing, or meeting with colleagues to discuss ongoing research projects, new ones to be started, papers to be written, and so on. Academia is all around in Berkeley. No wonder it’s such an inspiring place to be.
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COSTUME DESIGN
SCULPTURE
HALEY PETERSON
CONSTANCE TENVIK
Scholarship The Norwegian Marshall Fund, NORAM Field & level Costume Design, Master University Oslo National Academy of the Arts
Scholarship Thanks to Scandinavia, TTS Field & level Sculpture, MFA University Yale University, Connecticut
I like to tell people that on my second day of school in Norway I had a migraine and the second week I cried. In that first month I never thought I’d be staying a second year. Everything was overwhelming and exciting in this foreign Nordic world, different from the hot, dry desert and loud, busy city I was used to. How could I adapt? Where would I find the skills I needed and meet the people who could convince me to stay? But it happened. I made friends and I began picking up on the subtle quirks that makes the humor, language and customs of Norway so magnetic. Bouncy, warm words like hyggelig and koselig got me through the first winter. Going ut på ski and on søndagstur in nature-encircled Oslo got me into the native nesting grounds, although I was a lot worse at skiing than the expert toddlers flying past me at the beginning. Soon a year had almost gone by and I felt I was just cracking the ice of the surface of Norwegian culture. I had to stay! Thanks to the NORAM scholarship, my wish was granted, and my original intent of studying a Master degree in Costume Design at the Oslo National Academy of the Arts could continue. I would be able to complete my research on bunad and natural dyes from Norwegian nature. I hope to take my experience and become a costume designer and researcher who can improve the methods and artistic process of whatever collaborators I work with in the future. I hope for a while to be able to do this in Norway. One of my dreams is to work at the Norwegian Opera some day. But if I do return to the US, I am packed full of lessons and advice and improvement for life, design practice and the best knekkebrødpålegg combinations.
It has been an absolute privilege to be here. I have been able to pick and choose classes across all of the departments. I have enjoyed the department of Architecture, English and Art History, aside from the department of Art, where I have been allowed to be prolific in making art. The certification process for access in the metal work shop and in the wood workshop around the corner from my studio happened immediately when the fall semester began. My key card has allowed me access to most buildings. Most of the library books here, I have been allowed to flip through on a sponge pillow. I have been a guest at the Elizabethan Club a couple of times (sidenote: the only club or society in this place that I do not think is harmful). They own a piece of Lord Byron’s hair, all of the Punch magazines ever printed, and have several rare books in a vault that they sometimes open up. Members are both professors and students, and a couple of times a week they serve tea. My time as a graduate student at Yale University is coming to an end. I will wear one of those flat hats in a matter of weeks and I have already exposed my art work in the thesis exhibition of the sculpture department and participated in its review. These days I am trying to negotiate what kind of alien I should become for next year when I will explore what it is really like to be a struggling artist in New York.
NORAM Yearbook 2016
MARKETING
ECOLOGY
SILJE NORBYE
ROSS WETHERBEE
Scholarship Undergraduate Scholarship Program Field & level Marketing, Bachelor University California Lutheran University
Scholarship The Norwegian Marshall Fund, NORAM Field & level Ecology, Master University Norges Miljø- og Biovitenskapelige Universitet
I am currently a senior at CLU and in December I will get my bachelor’s degree in marketing. Along with the degree, I have made great friends and have had the opportunity to build professional relations with some truly influential professors and people. The university is not the typical one you would see in American movies, but it is big enough to include all kinds of people and cover all kinds of interests. CLU is a very active university both academically and physically. The school is located close to several running hikes that are beautiful in the sunset. Malibu is about 40 minutes away and is also a great place to hike. When I first came here I hiked almost every weekend, and I joined the surf club at CLU. Even though great things happen across the ocean it is hard to avoid the subject of leaving home, and I would be lying if I said I don’t miss Oslo, my family, my friends, the culture, not to mention the food. However, this is the time of life when we are free to travel, experience, make friends, loose every beer pong game, create memories, learn a language and just be independent. I am sure you have heard that a million times, but maybe a million and one is what will make you actually sit down and do the paperwork that will give you the experience of a lifetime. Lastly, if you follow American politics, you probably know the presidential election is coming up so make sure you get here before November 8th.
My name is Ross Wetherbee and I am finishing a master’s degree in Ecology at the Norwegian University of Life Science (NMBU) in Ås. I have had a wonderful time exploring the mountains and fjords of Norway. From the high snow covered peaks of Jotunheimen to the cascading waterfalls of Romsdal, the amount of access to beautiful places is unprecedented. The beautiful landscape of Norway has also shaped my education. I was able to carry out fieldwork for my master’s project in Kongsfjorden, Svalbard. The solitary ambience of this cold and majestic glacier fed fjord located in the High Arctic is offset by the fact it is teaming with life in the summer. Thousands of birds migrate there for breeding, seals and beluga whales swim in the fjord and arctic foxes patrol the coasts. I was also able to explore the quant countryside of Southern Norway while working as a field assistant for my supervisor. Norway has truly captured my heart. I am pleasantly surprised by the quality of education, access to faculty, and opportunities that were presented to me here at NMBU. I am grateful for the NORAM scholarship assisting me to take advantage of these opportunities. As is perhaps apparent from my tone, I am planning on staying in Norway and I am perusing PhD positions focused on research in the Arctic. My advice for any students thinking about studying abroad in Norway is: DO IT. The experience has broadened my worldview and provided me with experiences and opportunities that I did not even know existed. Oh and watch out for lutefisk …
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SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS OVERVIEW 2015–2016 In 2015, the Norway-America Association awarded 45 scholarships amounting to USD 550,755 (NOK 4 586 029) through its scholarship programs.
SCHOLARSHIPS FOR NORWEGIAN MASTER OR PHD STUDENTS IN THE UNITED STATES Every year, the Norway-America Association administrates up to 35 scholarships for graduate studies and research in the U.S. The program consists of scholarships and awards from several different organizations and scholarship funds, and is administrated as one program by NORAM. In 2015–2016, 25 Norwegians received funding from NORAM, The American-Scandinavian Foundation and Thanks To Scandinavia at a total of USD 300,339 (NOK 2,500,865).
The Norway-America Association Awards Anne Arnesen, Oslo Scholarship Fund: Ragnhild Marie Løkens Utdannelsesfond, NOK 24,500. Field: PhD level studies in Education at University of Oregon Damir Avdagic, Rena Scholarship Fund: The Norway-America Friendship Fund, NOK 42,750. Field: MFA in Art at University of California, Los Angeles Ida Engan, Melhus Scholarship Fund: HM Kong Olav V Fødelsdagsfond, NOK 25,800, and Franklin D. Roosevelt, Minnefond NOK 7,000. Total NOK 32,800. Field: Master level in Engineering at University of Minnesota Ingrid Harvold Kvangraven, Rødven in Rauma Scholarship Fund: HM Kong Olav V Fødelsdagsfond, NOK 26,700. Field: PhD in Economics at The New School Mathias Ormestad Frendem, Asker Scholarship Fund: The Norway-America Friendship Fund, NOK 15,000. Field: PhD level studies in Political Science at Harvard University Hallgeir Sjåstad, Bergen Scholarship Fund: Royal Caribbean Cruise Line Scholarship Fund, NOK 24,500, and Kong Olav V Stipendiefond, NOK 31,500. Total NOK 56,000. Field: PhD level studies in Psychology at Florida State University
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NORAM Yearbook 2016
The American-Scandinavian Foundation Awards Øyvind Blaker, Nannestad Scholarship Fund: The Haakon Styri Fund, USD 11,000, and The Stolt-Nilsen Fund for Education, USD 9,000. Total USD 20,000. Field: PhD in Engineering at University of Massachusetts Amherst Meriam Braanaas, Oslo Scholarship Fund: The Andrew E. and G. Norman Wigeland Fund, USD 10,000, and Norway House Foundation Fund, USD 10,000. Total USD 20,000. Field: MFA in Film at University of Southern California Agnes Bridge Walton Scholarship Fund: The Stolt-Nilsen Fund for Education, USD 9,000, and Haakon Styri Scholarship, USD 6,000. Total USD 15,000. Field: Master in Environmental Sciences at Yale University Andrea Dahlum, Lillehammer Scholarship Fund: The Andrew E. and G. Norman Wigeland Fund, USD 10,000. Field: LLM in Law at University of California, Berkeley
Jon Rasmus Nyquist, Bærum Scholarship Fund: The Haakon Styri Fund, USD 10,000, and Norway House Foundation, USD 7,500. Total USD 17,500. Field: PhD in Anthropology at University of California, Santa Cruz Ola Rye Malm, Gjerstad Scholarship Fund: The DNB ASA Fellowship Fund, USD 20,000. Field: MBA in Business Administration at Harvard University Iris Steine, Bergen Scholarship Fund: Norway House Foundation Fund, USD 10,000. Field: PhD in Psychology at University of California, Berkeley Anja Høvik Strømsted, Larvik Scholarship Fund: The Carl Olaf, Marie and Katherine Elizabeth Johnson Fellowship Fund, USD 11,000, and The King Haakon VII Fund, USD 5,800. Total USD 16,800. Field: MFA in Film at New York University Heidi Støa, Svelvik Scholarship Fund: The Andrew E. and G. Norman Wigeland Fund, USD 18,750. Field: PhD in Literature at Indiana University
Audun Grimstad, Tromsø Scholarship Fund: The Andrew E. and G. Norman Wigeland Fund, USD 20,000. Field: MFA in Design at School of Visual Arts Ragnhild Grønning, Levanger Scholarship Fund: The Andrew E. and G. Norman Wigeland Fund, USD 15,000. Field: Master in International Affairs at George Washington University Stig Roar Lier Habbestad, Oslo Scholarship Fund: The DNB ASA Fellowship Fund, USD 7,200. Field: MTM in Business Administration at Massachusetts Institute of Technology Pernille Rivedal Hellevik, Holmedal Scholarship Fund: The Mathilde Aas Fund, USD 14,100, and The King Haakon VII Fund, USD 900. Total USD 15,000. Field: MFA in Film at Columbia University Inga Ingulfsen, Oslo Scholarship Fund: The King Olav V Fund, USD 9,650. Field: Master in International Affairs at New York University
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Andrea Wister, Oslo Scholarship Fund: Norway House Foundation Fund, USD 15,000. Field: PhD in Psychology at Palo Alto University Svenn Marius Husem Wroldsen, Oslo Scholarship Fund: The Andrew E. and G. Norman Wigeland Fund, USD 10,850. Field: Master in International Affairs at Georgetown University Simen Østmo, Fenstad Scholarship Fund: The Haakon Styri Fund, USD 10,000. Field: PhD in Archeology at Arizona State University
Thanks to Scandinavia Constance Tenvik, Oslo Scholarship Fund: Thanks to Scandinavian Inc. Cash Grant, USD 20,000. Field: MFA in Fine Arts at Yale University
The Nansen Fund Charlott Sandor Johansen, Homestrand Scholarship Fund: John Dana Archbold Stipend, USD 5,000. Field: Master in International Affairs at Boston University
AWARDS FOR AMERICANS TO NORWAY Every year NORAM supports Americans students studying in Norway for their master or PhD. By awarding scholarships to American students or researchers, knowledge and understanding between Norway and the U.S. increases, strengthening the ties between the two countries. The awards vary from NOK 15,000 to NOK 35,000 and are awarded from the Thanksgiving Fund and the Norwegian Marshall Fund. In 2015–2016, five students were awarded a total of NOK 140,000 in scholarships. Nicholas Parkinson, West Lafayette, IN Scholarship Fund: The Norwegian Marshall Fund, NOK 20,000. Field: PhD level studies in Art at University of Oslo Haley Peterson, Chandler, AZ Scholarship Fund: The Norwegian Marshall Fund, NOK 35,000. Field: Master in Design at Oslo National Academy of the Arts Noa Avishag Schnall, Los Angeles, CA Scholarship Fund: The Norwegian Marshall Fund, NOK 35,000. Field: Master in Journalism at Sámi Allaskuvla Suraiya Jetha, Santa Cruz, CA Scholarship Fund: The Norwegian Marshall Fund, NOK 15,000. Field: PhD level studies in Anthropology at University of Oslo Ross Wetherbee, Bentonville, AR Scholarship Fund: The Norwegian Marshall Fund, NOK 24,500 and The Thanksgiving Fund NOK 10,500. Total NOK 35,000. Field: Master in Biology at Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU), Ås
ALF AND BERGLJOT KOLFLAT AWARD The scholarship is awarded to Norwegian engineers and architects, for visits to the United States. Up to two scholarships are awarded every year, with amounts up to NOK 30,000. Trygve Utstumo, Oslo Scholarship Fund: Alf og Bergljot Kolflats Stipendiefond, NOK 30,000. Field: Visiting Scholar in Robotics Engineer at Google
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NORAM Yearbook 2016
Member schools 2015 ȲȲ California Lutheran University, Thousand Oaks, CA ȲȲ Central Washington University, Ellensburg, WA ȲȲ Clark University, Worchester, MA ȲȲ Concordia College, Moorhead, MN ȲȲ Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Daytona Beach, FL ȲȲ Luther College, Decorah, IA ȲȲ Michigan Technology University, Houghton, MI ȲȲ North Park University, Chicago, IL ȲȲ Pacific Lutheran University, Tacoma, WA ȲȲ Southern New Hampshire University, Manchester, NH ȲȲ St. Olaf College, Northfield, MN ȲȲ State University of New York (SUNY) Plattsburgh, NY ȲȲ University of St. Thomas, St. Paul, MN
Undergraduate Program AMBASSADOR ROBERT D. STUART JR. FELLOWSHIP The goal of the Ambassador Robert D. Stuart Jr. Fellowship is to enable emerging Norwegian political and governmental leaders to engage in a semester of study and practical experience in Washington, D.C. This opportunity enables the recipient to become acquainted first-hand with American society and institutions in a way which will later benefit mutual understanding and bilateral relations between the United States and Norway. One award is given each year, and candidates are chosen from each political party on a rotating basis. Anne Marie Aanerud, Oslo Scholarship Fund: Ambassador Robert D. Stuart Jr. Fellowship, USD 20,000. Field: Visiting Scholar in International Affairs at George Washington University
SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM FOR BACHELOR DEGREE IN THE UNITED STATES This program is for Norwegian students interested in studying at the undergraduate level in the US. Currently, thirteen undergraduate colleges and universities offer scholarships to Norwegian students through this program. These scholarships are not cash grants, but are credited towards tuition, fees, and room and board – covering up to 80 % of total expenses. Thirteen students were awarded scholarships and admission through this program in 2015, at a total of USD 210,000 (NOK 1,748,628).
California Lutheran University, Thousand Oaks, CA Mats Albins, Oslo Sandra Klonteig, Lierskogen Silje Amalie Tangedal Norbye, Oslo Vegard Bang Ritland, Oslo Audun Waldrop, Oslo Clark University, Worchester, MA Emilie Katharina Backer, Kristiansand Fiona Maeve McDonnell, Baråker Peter Hvalsengen Smaadahl, Oslo Concordia College, Moorhead, MN Ulrik Kvisle Sagbakken, Oslo Joseph Mohamed Suleiman, Oslo North Park University, Chicago, IL Lena Emilie Gylseth, Mo i Rana Pacific Lutheran University, Tacoma, WA Jesper Andreas Bergesen, Nesøya Harald Overå, Feda
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PERNILLE RIVEDAL HELLEVIK COMPLETED HER MFA IN FILM AT COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY, MAY 2016. SHE RECEIVED SCHOLARSHIP THROUGH NORAM IN 2013–14 AND 2015–16
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ANNUAL REPORT 2015 2015 was another great year for the Norway-America Association (NORAM). We continued our efforts to modernize and professionalize our activities, as well as increasing our efforts to help Norwegian students with their studies. By awarding scholarship and advising students, hundreds of students are every year able to fulfill their dreams thanks to NORAM’s ability to help. Our main achievement of the year was to create and complete NORAM’s alumni database. Throughout NORAM’s 96 year history, the organization has supported many exceptional people and our yearbooks have been the only place where they have been registered. As NORAM is nearing its 100th anniversary in 2019, the organization has found it important to make the history more accessible. In 2015, resources were put towards collecting the information into a database. Over the course of a few months, NORAM hired an intern to go through all the yearbooks and historic documentation, to create a searchable database of all our alumni from 1919–2015. During the course of the project, the database was expanded to become a record not just for alumni, but also for members, sponsors and applications for scholarships. The database was made possible through a generous donation from the Leif Høegh Stiftelsen. The number of Norwegian students studying in the United States reached a record 2096 students in 2015 (with support from Lånekassen), but NORAM is anticipating this number to decrease in the near future because of the weakened Norwegian currency. It has become 30 % more expensive to study in the United States from August 2014 to December 2015, and our scholarship and partnership agreements in the United States are more important than ever for the students. The ties to Canada were also further strengthened in 2015. As part of the ongoing campaign “Velg Canada” with the Canadian Embassy in Oslo, Norwegian Centre for International Cooperation in Education (SIU), and ANSA, NORAM co-hosted a meeting for high school counselors and an information meeting about studies in Canada. Contact was also established with several Canadian universities, with the intention to explore possibilities for further cooperation. NORAM was also present at Canadian Bureau of International Education’s (CBIE) Annual Conference, hosted in November 2015. Throughout the year, NORAM’s knowledge and competence on Canadian higher educa-
tion was improved so the organization can continue to advise students in the best way possible.
MISSION The Norway-America Association’s mission is to strengthen ties between Norway and North America through educational and cultural exchange. We work to fulfill this goal through our six scholarship programs, cooperation with 13 undergraduate schools, in addition to our role in administrating many scholarships from other institutions in the U.S. and Norway. NORAM also offers unbiased college counseling and advice. NORAM shares Executive Director and office space with Norwegians Worldwide (NWW), a nonprofit organization that works to strengthen cultural and personal ties between Norway and Norwegians abroad. NORAM also represents the American-Scandinavian Foundation (ASF) in Norway and works closely with Thanks to Scandinavia Inc, the Stuart Family Foundation, the American and Canadian Embassies in Oslo, the U.S.-Norway Fulbright Foundation, ANSA, the Norwegian Centre for International Cooperation in Education (SIU), the American College of Norway, the American Chamber of Commerce, the Research Council of Norway, and others. NORAM often visits American and Norwegian universities, student groups and high schools to inform them about study opportunities in the U.S., as well as our own scholarship programs.
SCHOLARSHIPS In 2015, the Norway-America Association awarded 45 scholarships amounting to NOK 4.59 million through scholarship programs. Interest in studying or researching in North America is high, and we are not able to support all qualified applicants. Detailed financial statements, as well as lists of scholarship recipients and amounts, can be found in this yearbook. The table below provides a quick overview of the scholarships awarded in 2015.
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••• NORAM BY NUMBERS Number of scholarship Scholarship Amount* (NOK) Norwegians to the U.S. recipients/trainees Undergraduate scholarship from schools 13 1,748,628 Awards for Graduate Studies and Research in the U.S. 25 2,500,865 The Norway-America Association Awards 6 204,750 American-Scandinavian Foundation Awards (ASF) 17 2,087,945 Thanks to Scandinavia 1 166,536 The John Dana Archbold Fellowship 1 41,634 Alf and Bergljot Kolflat Award for Architects and Engineers 1 30,000 Ambassador Robert D. Stuart Jr. Fellowship 1 166,536 Americans to Norway Norwegian Marshall Fund/ Norwegian Thanksgiving Fund American Civilization Lecturing Fund Total * **
Awards made in USD has been converted using Norges Bank currency 1. september 2015, 1 USD = 8,3268 NOK No applicant were awarded
FINANCIAL SUPPORT NORAM receives no public funding. To cover the operating costs of the Association, we depend on our sponsors and members. We are very grateful for their generous support. It motivates the organization to know that our sponsors believe in the importance of what we are doing and what we can accomplish, with study options in the U.S. constantly expanding. NORAM’s role as education advisor is more important than ever before. Many students are dependent on NORAM’s guidance and financial support throughout their academic career. As American higher education costs soar and the funding from Lånekassen is not sufficient, students are finding it increasingly difficult to pursue their dream of studying in the U.S. Scholarships that NORAM provides for graduate programs (master, Ph.D and research programs), as well as those that NORAM has negotiated with our membership schools at the bachelor level, are increasingly valuable.
ACTIVITIES The Norway-America Association manages six different scholarship programs/funds, and cooperates with other organizations to facilitate scholarships and a trainee/internship program. NORAM plays an important role as an information center for anyone interested in studying in North America. We offer accurate, unbiased, comprehensive and timely information about educational institutions in the United States and Canada.
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5 140,000 ** — 45 4,586,029
NORAM Yearbook 2016
We also give guidance to students, parents, guardians, high school advisers, and others on how best to access those opportunities. Through seminars, school visits and fairs, NORAM reaches a wide audience in Norway. Daily, the Association receives requests by e-mail, telephone, and in person from individuals interested in studies in the U.S. and Canada. During 2015 NORAM approximately responded to ȲȲ Emails: 850 ȲȲ Phone calls: 190 ȲȲ Individual appointments (booked): 65 We also attended or arranged around 20 seminars, fairs and open nights in 2015. Roughly 1150 students received information about NORAM and the programs that we offer through these events. Educational Fairs NORAM was present at the “Ta Utdanning” college fair at Oslo Spektrum, one of the largest education fairs in Norway. We were also part of the planning committee for “College Day Scandinavia”, a fair held at Oslo Handelsgymnasium. For this successful event we partnered with College Council, The U.S. Embassy, ANSA, Fulbright and Education USA. There were several presentations, workshops and a fair with representation from 35 American universities for students to meet. NORAM also helped plan another fair organized by Studievalg.no in September 2015. About 20 schools were present at this fair, and 180 eager students got
quality information about how to apply, scholarship opportunities and tips on how to write a college essay. Seminars NORAM is a sought-after partner for seminars on study opportunities in the U.S., aimed at various audiences including high school students, graduate students, school advisers, and parents. Our presentations provide overview of the U.S. education system, the best strategies for applying to schools in the U.S., and information on sport scholarships, as well as our own scholarship programs. NORAM often partners with Fulbright, ANSA and Education USA at these seminars. Visits from U.S. and Canadian Universities NORAM is a natural point of contact for U.S. university representatives visiting Norway. During 2015, several representatives from members of the NORAM Undergraduate Scholarship program visited our offices, as well as representatives from universities that are not affiliated with our program. We are always interested in expanding our undergraduate school portfolio, and learning about new schools as it helps us inform students better about their opportunities. We aim to host events for our program universities when they are in Norway. In 2015, NORAM signed University of British Columbia to our undergraduate scholarship program. NORAM will continue its efforts to get even more Canadian institutions as partners, and will encourage students to choose Canada for their studies. Travel NORAM’s mission states that the organization should have a nationwide scope, and in 2015 we fulfilled this by completing several outreach programs. This year we co-organized a two-day trip in December to Stavanger. NORAM, ANSA and U.S. embassy officials visited three high schools, University of Stavanger and one Norwegian folk high school (folkehøyskole) to promote the U.S. higher education and let students know that we are here to help. A lot of NORAM’s advising efforts are about undergraduate studies in the US and NORAM’s partner schools. To help advising students better about their choices, NORAM visited several of our partner universities in September 2015 on a mid-west tour. During the trip NORAM visited University of St. Thomas, Concordia College, St. Olaf College, Luther College and North Park University and met with students, faculty and staff. In addition to the partner institutions, NORAM also visited Macalester College and Augsburg College, former partner institutions in the Undergraduate Program. In the past few years NORAM has not worked with Canadian institutions, but as the organization’s mission is to promote higher education in North America, it is important to be updated on Ca-
nadian Higher Education. This year we attended the Canadian Bureau of International Education’s (CBIE) Annual Conference in Niagara Falls, Ontario. NORAM met with many Canadian institutions and were able to learn a lot about the education system and what Canada can offer students. The Norwegian Centre for International Cooperation in Education (SIU), the Norwegian Embassy in Washington DC and several Norwegian institutions all attended the conference, important and valuable contacts for NORAM. U.S.–Norway Task Force for Educational Exchange The Norway-America Association continues to work with its partners to increase academic exchange between Norway and North America. Throughout 2015, the Association participated actively in the U.S.-Norway Task Force, together with the U.S. Embassy, the U.S.-Norway Fulbright Foundation, the Norwegian Centre for International Cooperation in Higher Education (SIU), the Association of Norwegian Students Abroad (ANSA), the American Chamber of Commerce, American Field Service (ASF), Youth for Understanding (YFU) and the American College of Norway.
EVENTS The Annual Meeting The Association held its Annual Meeting at the offices of Formuesforvaltning on June 15th, 2015. An account of NORAM’s activities was presented by the president, including the positive result from the financial statement. The board members who were up for election were reelected. The Award Ceremony (Stipenddagen) was held at the Norwegian Nobel Institute on June 15th, 2015. The event was attended by 14 scholarship recipients, and 75 guests. Media profile Jan M. Moberg from Teknisk Ukeblad, gave his personal story about how his experience and education from the United States has shaped his career. Trine Halvorsen who received a scholarship to complete an LLM at Georgetown University gave the outbound students advice on how to maximize their time abroad, and recommended the students to take chances. Public Affairs Officer Kim Dubois from the U.S. embassy also wished the students a happy time abroad and urged them to enjoy every moment of their time as students. 4th of July NORAM and Norwegians Worldwide were invited to the 4th of July celebration hosted by the U.S. embassy at Villa Otium. The event is attended by important contacts for both organizations and opens new opportunities for fruitful cooperation.
NORAM Yearbook 2016
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VEGARD RITLAND STARTED HIS BACHELOR IN COMMUNICATION AT CALIFORNIA LUTHERAN UNIVERSITY, FALL 2015. HERE HE IS AT COACHELLA VALLEY MUSIC AND ARTS FESTIVAL, CA SPRING 2016
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American Coordinating Council of Norway (ACCN) – 4th of July in Frognerparken ACCN hosts a 4th of July celebration in Frognerparken every year, which is open to the public. In 2015 both NORAM and Norwegians Worldwide attended by having a stand at the event to spread information about the organizations, and to be a part of the American community in Norway. Member events NORAM and the Norwegian Atlantic Committee hosted together with Twentieth Century Fox Norway, a sneak-premiere of the Steven Spielberg movie Bridge of Spies at Victoria Kino on November 26th, 2015. The event was very popular among our members, sponsors and friends, and a total of 140 people were present. Nils Morten Udgaard explained the context of the movie afterwards. Udgaard is the former editor of foreign affairs in Aftenposten, former state secretary for foreign affairs to Prime Minister Kåre Willoch (1984–1986), in addition to his long political career and extensive foreign policy and historical authorship. Traditional Christmas get-together: On December 14th, NORAM invited its scholarship recipients, members of the Association, Board Members, and other friends, to our traditional “Julegløgg.” Guests enjoyed traditional mulled wine (gløgg) and cookies in our office overlooking Akershus Fortress and the Oslo harbor. The event was hosted together with Norwegians Worldwide.
STAFF AND WORK ENVIRONMENT NORAM maintained a permanent staff of three (two part time and one fulltime, equaling 1,6 FTE) from January until September. From September it was reduced to one part time, and one fulltime, equaling 1,2 FTE. Hanne K. Aaberg’s position as Executive Director is
split between the Norway-America Association (20 %) and Norwegians Worldwide (80 %). Mari Stromsvag maintained her position as Director of Scholarship Programs (100 %). Maria Vang Ormhaug had the position as NORAM’s Sponsor Contact, sharing her time between NORAM (40 %) and Norwegians Worldwide (60 %) until September, when she moved to the UK. Silje Norby was hired as our summer intern in charge of updating and collecting information for the alumni database. Jon-Even Seegaard continued to help NORAM and Norwegians Worldwide as a volunteer, a role he has had since January 2014. The Association’s accountant was Jørgen Gvein from OpusCapita, and the auditor was Bente Wilhelmsen, Registered Public Accountant. Work environment We enjoy a good working environment in our organization, with little sick leave. Our activities are not detrimental to the environment. There is no discrimination in our organization. NORAM offers work placement for candidates in job rehabilitation programs.
A WORD OF THANKS Our high activity level would not be possible without contributions from our faithful and valuable sponsors. We are deeply grateful for each of these generous gifts, as well as the support from our corporate and individual members and our cooperating partners. We would also like to thank our Scholarship Committee, consisting of top academics and specialists from a number of fields, for their invaluable contribution to The Norway–America Association. The evaluation of the applicants involves a lot of hard work, tough decisions and dedication to NORAM’s mission to promote educational exchange between Norway and the U.S. The input and evaluation from experts in the applicant’s field is also of great value, and we would like to thank them as well.
OSLO, MARCH 17TH 2016
Liv Elin Hjelmeland, president
Helmer Aslaksen
Berit L. Henriksen
Vibeke Steineger
Peder Chr. Løvenskiold
Inger E. Prebensen
Halgrim Thon
Jarl Ulvin
Hanne K. Aaberg, Executive Director
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NORAM Yearbook 2016
FINANCIAL STATEMENT 2015 THE NORWAY-AMERICA ASSOCIATION ORG. NR: NO 940 469 643
IN NOK Income Membership Sponsors Miscellanous income Total income Expenses Administrative costs Office expenses Salary Total expenses
NORGE-AMERIKA STIFTELSEN ORG. NR: NO 977 130 972
2015
2014
94,300 937,836 665,524 1,697,660
34,696 1,070,216 674,074 1,778,986
537,461 501,859 566,037 1,605,357
520,000 645,903 491,974 1,657,877
92,303
121,109
Balance, December 31 Assets Capital (bank accounts, bonds and mutual funds) Total assets
2,090,583 2,090,583
2,073,460 2,073,460
Liabilities and capital Equity Current liabilities Total Equity and Debts
1,960,013 130,570 2,090,583
1,867,710 205,750 2,073,460
Profit
THE BOARDS The Norway-America Association Board Liv Elin Hjelmeland (chairman), Berit L. Henriksen, Jarl Ulvin, Peder Chr. Løvenskiold, Vibeke Steineger, Helmer Aslaksen, Halgrim Thon, Inger E. Prebensen Norge-Amerika Stiftelsen Board Peder Chr. Løvenskiold (chairman), Halgrim Thon, Stig S. Kvendseth, Hanne K. Aaberg The America-Norway Heritage Fund Peder Chr. Løvenskiold (chairman), Halgrim Thon, Stig S. Kvendseth, Hanne K. Aaberg
2015 968,462 657,564 367,750 - 56,852
2014 1,145,146 510,071 302,000 333,075
Balance, December 31 Assets Capital (bank accounts, bonds and mutual funds) Total assets
25,036,278 25,036,278
24,909,061 24,909,061
Liabilities and capital Equity Current liabilities Total Equity and Debts
24,546,230 490,048 25,036,278
24,603,082 305,979 24,909,061
IN NOK Income Expenses Scholarships Profit
Norge-Amerika Stiftelsen had not been formally audited when this yearbook was printed.
THE AMERICA-NORWAY HERITAGE FUND ORG. NR: NO 979 486 375
2015 31,595 56,630 - 25,035
2014 73,878 22,050 51,828
Balance, December 31 Assets Capital (bank accounts, bonds and mutual funds) Total assets
2,473,048 2,473,048
2,498,088 2,498,088
Liabilities and capital Equity Current liabilities Total Equity and Debts
2,456,757 16,291 2,473,048
2,481,792 16,296 2,498,088
IN NOK Income Expenses Profit
•••
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THANKS TO OUR SUPPORTERS! THE NORWAY-AMERICA ASSOCIATION IS GRATEFUL TO THE INDIVIDUALS, CORPORATIONS, AND FOUNDATIONS THAT HAVE GENEROUSLY SUPPORTED OUR WORK IN THE PAST YEAR. WITHOUT THIS FUNDING, NORAM WOULD NOT BE ABLE TO CONTINUE OUR MISSION TO STRENGTHEN THE TIES BETWEEN NORWAY AND NORTH-AMERICA THROUGH EDUCATIONAL EXCHANGE. THE LOGOS AND ADVERTISEMENT ON THE FOLLOWING PAGES ARE FROM OUR GENEROUS SUPPORTERS.
LEIF HØEGH STIFTELSE
HALVORSEN FAMILY FOUNDATION
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THE PER AND ASTRID HEIDENREICH FAMILY FOUNDATION
NIMROD HOLDING
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OBOSer medlemm r r me oppleve re! for mind
Fordeler hele livet – Som OBOS-medlem stiller du foran i køen den dagen du skal kjøpe egen bolig. Du får også en rekke fordeler alle de årene du ikke benytter deg av forkjøpsretten: • • •
Inntil 50 % rabatt på bolig- og kulturtilbud. Svært gode betingelser på lån, sparing og forsikring. Forkjøpsrett til ca. 87 000 nye og brukte OBOS-boliger.
BLI MEDLEM: www.obos.no eller send sms: OBOS til 2030.
Pareto er en uavhengig og ledende aktør i det nordiske m a r k e d e t f o r f i n a n s i e l l e t j e n e s t e r. S e l s k a p e t h a r k o n t o r e r i O s l o , S t a v a n g e r, B e r g e n , T r o n d h e i m , K r i s t i a n s a n d , Stockholm, Malmø, Helsingfors, København, London, A b e r d e e n , P a r i s , S i n g a p o r e , P e r t h , N e w Yo r k o g H o u s t o n . Pareto ble stiftet mot slutten av 1985 og har utviklet seg til å bli et konsern med et omfattende produkts p e k t e r. K o n s e r n e t h a r c a . 6 1 0 a n s a t t e . Pareto tilbyr tjenester innenfor verdipapirmegling, rådgivning, aktivamegling, forvaltning, skipsmegling, forsikringsmegling, prosjektfinansiering og kreditt. L e s m e r p å w w w. p a r e t o . n o
OVERVIEW OF THE NORWAY-AMERICA ASSOCIATION
THE NORWAY-AMERICA ASSOCIATION 2015–2016
PATRON
STAFF
H.M. King Harald V
HONORARY MEMBERS
Hanne K. Aaberg, Executive Director Mari Strømsvåg, Director of Scholarship Programs Maria Vang Ormhaug, Sponsor Contact (until September 2015)
Ragnhild Galtung Arne Wilhelmsen
COOPERATING ORGANIZATIONS
BOARD Liv Elin Hjelmeland, President and Chair Berit L. Henriksen Peder Chr. Løvenskiold Vibeke Steineger Halgrim Thon Jarl Ulvin Helmer Aslaksen Inger E. Prebensen (ex officio)
SCHOLARSHIP COMMITTEE Helmer Aslaksen, Chair Øystein Noreng Reidun Sirevåg Julie Christiansen Liv Duesund Marit Bakke
ȲȲ American Chamber of Commerce in Norway (AmCham) ȲȲ American College of Norway ȲȲ ANSA – Association of Norwegian Students Abroad ȲȲ Canadian Norwegian Business Association (CNBA) ȲȲ CollegeCouncil ȲȲ Denmark-America Foundation – Danmark-Amerika Fondet ȲȲ EducationUSA ȲȲ Embassy of Canada to Norway ȲȲ Embassy of United States Oslo, Norway ȲȲ Icelandic-American Society – Íslensk-Ameríska Félagið ȲȲ League of Finnish-American Societies – Suomi-Amerikka Yhdistysten Liitto r.y. ȲȲ Sweden-America Foundation – Sverige-Amerika Stiftelsen ȲȲ Thanks To Scandinavia, Inc. ȲȲ The American-Scandinavian Foundation ȲȲ The Nansen Fund, Inc. ȲȲ The Norwegian Centre for International Cooperation in Higher Education (SIU) ȲȲ The Research Council of Norway ȲȲ U.S.- Norway Fulbright Foundation
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DONORS AND MEMBERS MAKE A DIFFERENCE!
Donors and members make a difference! Your support helps the Norway-America Association achieve its mission to strengthen the ties between Norway and North America through higher education and culture exchange. NORAM helps hundreds of students every year through our scholarship programs for undergraduate, graduate, PhD and researchers and through advising students about their opportunities. Join NORAM today, and we can help even more students.
BECOME A MEMBER/ RENEW YOUR MEMBERSHIP Students: NOK 200 Member: NOK 300 Friend of NORAM: NOK 1000 Please make your contribution payable to our bank account: 7878 05 23025 Be sure to include your full name and address.
Rådhusgaten 23 B, 0158 Oslo, Norway Telephone: +47 23 35 71 60 Email: info@noram.no / www.noram.no
BECOME A SPONSOR NOK 10,000–250,000 We are always looking for new sponsors to support our organization. Please contact us if your company would like to make a donation. info@noram.no Your support makes a difference!
THE NORWAY-AMERICA ASSOCIATION NORGE-AMERIKA FORENINGEN SINCE 1919