EPS-Oslo
Profile
There are six providers of EPS in Europe at the moment. They all will offer the basic concept of promoting the multicultural and multidisciplinary aspects of modern engineering. EPS-Oslo will too, as we have done since the start in 2003. However, we will also try to offer at least a couple of projects with a strong environmental focus.
Language and culture
The Norwegian language is not the easiest to master, and we don't expect you to either. But through lessons in some basic Norwegian words and phrases in addition to a bit of history and cultural knowledge about Norway and Oslo - art and industry - we think you will enjoy your stay even more. These are fun lessons and not very technically challenging, but you will hopefully learn quite a bit about life in modern Norway (and Oslo in particular). But most of the time communication will be in English anyway, so don't worry too much about language issues.
There are a lots of good reasons to come to Norway. A special interest in the country, curiosity, environmental interest or other things will bring students here. Maybe just a wish for the special multicultural aspect of the EPS concept is what's pulling. No matter what reason YOU have, we intend to show you several good aspects of this nice city.
In addition to a lively nightlife, lots of exotic (and some very cheap) restaurants, plenty of nice green lungs, museums, nice cafes etc., it is only about 15 minutes from downtown Oslo to Nordmarka (the "wilderness"). Here you can take a swim in the lakes, go for a long walk or run, bring your bike or just relax in a green and pleasant atmosphere.
Students with special interests in Norwegian culture and language will receive help from personnel at OUC specially dedicated to catering for international students. If we can be of help, we will. Take a note of the Norwegian national day on May 17th which is a very special occasion. Do not expect to see army parades and the like, just a lot of happy kids parading the streets of Oslo!
Three seasons in one - how can that be?
As for the period February-June you will experience winter (February-March) with the chance of snowboarding, cross-country skiing, downhill and more - spring (April-May) with the sun coming back, snow melting and everybody smiling, summer (June) when you can enjoy trips to Nordmarka or the occasional beer in the sun or even the beach (which is reachable by bike or bus in a few minutes). Some nice little islands in the Oslo fjord are also accessible. You can spend some amazing May and June days there.
As for the period August - December you will experience the transition from summer to winter. You might enjoy an early autumn with crystal clear air and a bright sun, go for a walk in the forest where you can pick blueberries or mushrooms, or just enjoy the scenery of the many colours of the forest. When the days get colder and darker you can enjoy indoor activities in one of Oslo’s many cinemas, cafés, museums, bars etc.
Both semesters have its own special charm and moments, and we assure you that you will experience amazing days through the whole year – so don’t forget your camera and suitable clothing.
Stationary - computers - the school year
The first semester of EPS-Oslo saw 15 participants through - 5 from Spain, 3 from Norway, 3 from Germany, 2 from France one from Poland and one from Switzerland. In 2004 and 2005 we received students from other nationalities as well. Estonia, Sweden, Finland, Ireland, Colombia, USA and more. We aim for a good mix of Norwegian and international students to ease your stay in Norway. You'll make both Norwegian and international friends much easier this way - and in general, getting around will be easier when you have someone to ask and maybe go with you.
The EPS project groups will dispose of a classroom, a Laptop for each group with access to the Internet in addition to word-processing programs etc. In this way the group will always have their own little spot where papers, books, notes etc can be stored without risk of loosing them. Only EPS participants will have access to that room which will be locked when nobody is there.
Holidays - semester scedule
In Norway you can expect some public holidays (bank holidays) in May and one week during the easter holidays. Other than that you must expect to study. Although how the project group decides to spend its time is up to the group, as long as the group counsellor/contact is informed and doesn't object too hard. The completion of the project is of course the first priority.