By Julia, Master’s Student in Leadership and Organizational Psychology
When I arrived at BI Norwegian Business School in Bergen as an international student from Germany, I was both excited and nervous to begin my Master’s in Leadership and Organizational Psychology. The onboarding day designed for all first-year students turned out to be exactly what I needed to feel prepared for the next two years. In this post, I want to share my experience of that day and how it helped me settle into this new academic chapter.
A Comprehensive Overview of the Program
The day started with Professors Kari Einarsen and Kari Ågotnes giving us an in-depth overview of the program. Even though I had read about the course structure before applying, having it explained in detail by the professors gave me much-needed clarity. The first year focuses on core organizational psychology topics, while the second year allows for more flexibility. I learned that we could choose between studying abroad, taking elective courses, or even gaining practical experience through an internship.
At first, the idea of having so many options felt a bit overwhelming. But the encouragement from the professors, along with the clear explanation of the support BI provides, reassured me. I left feeling confident that I’d be guided through these choices when the time came.
Getting to Know My Classmates
One of the aspects that drew me to BI Bergen was the small class size—roughly 25 students. I had hoped this would create a close-knit community, but I was still nervous about meeting my classmates. Thankfully, the onboarding day included several activities designed to break the ice and help us connect on a deeper level. My favorite part was the speed-dating activity. Instead of sticking to typical small talk, we answered unconventional questions that helped us share personal stories. By the end of the day, I felt much more comfortable with my classmates and was excited to spend the next two years learning alongside them.
Clarifying Expectations and Building Confidence
One thing that stood out to me was how clearly Professors Einarsen and Ågotnes communicated the expectations for the program. We were told that our master’s degree would essentially be our full-time job for the next two years, and we needed to commit fully. They explained the importance of active participation in both group work and individual assignments, which gave me a clear sense of what would be required.
I also really appreciated the “letter to self” exercise, where we wrote down our goals and expectations for the program. This reflective activity helped me clarify my aspirations and boosted my confidence in my ability to succeed. Knowing that BI provides a strong support system of faculty and peers made me feel more prepared for the challenges ahead.
Conclusion: From Preparation to Success
Together, these two reflections—from the professors and from me as a student—capture the essence of the onboarding experience at BI Bergen. The professors' structured approach, rooted in research and designed to address both academic and social integration, laid the groundwork for a successful start. Meanwhile, as a student, I experienced firsthand how the onboarding day helped me gain confidence, build relationships, and feel fully equipped to embark on my two-year journey.
This onboarding program is not just a formality; it sets the tone for the entire experience. The focus on clear expectations, community building, and personal growth ensures that every student, whether local or international, starts their master’s program feeling supported and ready to succeed.
Read Part 2: Setting the Stage for Success – Insights from BI Bergen’s Onboarding Program