Name: Nikshubha Kumar
Home Country: India
Undergraduate degree: Bachelor of Technology (Computer Science and Engineering)
Previous university: Indira Gandhi Delhi Technical University for Women (IGDTUW), India
Current study program at BI: M.Sc. in Business Analytics, campus Oslo
For someone who has resided in one place for the past 25 years, I was hesitant to move away and call a new place home. The first two weeks after moving to Norway were tiring and stressful because I had still not been able to convert my unfurnished room into a home. Having been here for 8 months now, I have been able to set my room in the most comfortable way. Everything I need is within these 4 walls and I can happily spend hours here.
I live at Carl Berners Student Housing. The main reasons why this student housing was best for me are as follows:
- It has housing units that include a private room, with a private bathroom and a shared kitchen, which is what I wanted. This was perfect as I am someone who loves to connect with others while keeping her privacy.
- Carl Berner Student Housing is only 3 stops away from Nydalen (for reaching BI) when using the T-Bane (metro).
- Jernbanetorget, the city centre, is just 15 minutes away.
- Reaching any corner of Oslo is very convenient as the Bus stop, T-Bane station, and Tram stop are at a walking distance of 5-10 minutes. The FlyBussen, FB5A, can be boarded from the bus stop to reach the Oslo Luftavn (the airport) directly within 50 minutes.
- The housing is close to all the supermarkets, Rema 1000, Kiwi, and Coop, giving one a variety of options to choose from. There's also a local grocery shop around the corner in case someone prefers to buy loose vegetables and fruits.
Meeting Norwegians
This housing option was the most convenient for me. I presently share the kitchen with 5 other girls. Sharing the space over time, talking to each other, and having dinners and coffees together, we have become good friends. Through them, I have been able to get a taste of Norwegian culture and customs. Thanks to them, I have tried numerous Norwegian snacks and drinks that have become my regular purchases.
Making my room my home
Moving into an unfurnished room and transforming it into a satisfying abode has been the most challenging. When I moved here, I was ready to explore Finn.no and Facebook Marketplace to get my hands on good furniture. Fortunately, I could grab some good deals and was able to set up the entire room within 300kr. Also, I was lucky to find some great giveaway deals. However, for personal reasons, I felt it was important to buy a new duvet and mattress from Ikea, which cost me around 2500kr.
Thinking about the quote from Winnie the Pooh, 'Home is the comfiest place to live', I believe my small room mirrors this feeling. I have experienced many cozy and heartwarming moments here, made friends that have helped me in days of sickness, and uncovered its most spectacular terrace to see beautiful views of the city.