My name is Dominik Karacic, and I recently graduated with a bachelor's degree in Finance and Economics from Drury University in Missouri. During my final year of university in the US, I wasn't really considering getting a job. I always knew I wanted to pursue a master's degree. While most of my friends were looking for their first "real" job and stepping into the "real" world, I wasn't really interested in that. The idea of financial stability appealed to me at first, but I couldn't shake the desire to continue my educational journey and enjoy a couple more years without genuine responsibilities. Besides, who doesn't enjoy being a poor student?
When the time came to chart my path for graduate studies, I carefully considered my options. While Croatia offered the comfort of familiarity with loved ones close by, I yearned for the adventure of exploring new horizons and embarking on a journey of personal growth. Thus, my gaze turned towards Scandinavia, with Norway, Denmark, and even my homeland Croatia vying for my attention.
The decision to pursue my master's degree in Norway was not solely based on academic considerations, though the glowing accolades surrounding their education system certainly played a part. Equally compelling was the opportunity to immerse myself in a community that prized critical thinking, innovation, and inclusivity.
Once I had made the decision to pursue my master's degree in Norway, I had to choose which university to attend. In all honesty, BI seemed like the best option. BI has been ranked as Norway's best business school by the Financial Times. To make things even better, there was a scholarship option, which I fortunately received. Other schools I looked into had programs that I didn't really like, and it felt like BI offered many more interesting options. Another aspect I loved about BI is that the campus is extremely nice, and it's super close to the city center.
Moreover, Norway's appeal extended far beyond its educational prestige. The country's steadfast commitment to social welfare and its robust economy resonated deeply with me. Having witnessed firsthand the disparities in access to healthcare and social services in both Croatia and the US, Norway's model of governance, which prioritized the well-being of its citizens, struck a chord.
Now, regarding the weather. I know everyone complains about how bad it is, but I have to disagree. Sure, it's not always perfect, but once you invest in a nice rain jacket, some quality boots, and maybe even some rain pants, you realize that the weather isn't such a big deal. My friends might tease me for saying this, but honestly, once you're prepared, it's just part of the charm of living here.
Looking ahead, I feel a mix of excitement and apprehension about what the future holds. While there's undoubtedly a degree of uncertainty, I'm confident that Norway offers a wealth of opportunities for personal and professional growth. Despite being relatively new to the country, it already feels like a place where I can truly flourish.