BLOG MANAGER
PROGRAMME: Master's in Folkloristics and Applied Heritage Studies
Why did you choose to study this programme?
I chose this programme because I wanted to research culture from a theoretical point of view, while also focusing on 19th-20th century Norwegian folklore. The University of Tartu hosts the UNESCO Chair for Intangible Cultural Heritage, so I knew that there would be classes and professors who specialised in cultural theory pertaining to “living culture” like folklore. At the same time, the master’s programme is very flexible in terms of coursework, so I knew I would also be able to design it in a way that fits best for me and my research interests.
Why Estonia?
I feel that there are more opportunities for me right now in Europe, especially at this phase of my life. I prefer the (very international!) student lifestyle here, and as a young researcher focused on cultures within Europe, it is more feasible to do fieldwork, attend conferences, and make professional and personal connections from here. I also think it is really cool to be studying Norwegian culture in Estonia as an American, and this offers a unique academic perspective.
Estonia was not on my radar before I started looking for master’s programmes, but I am so glad that I ended up in Tartu. I have been totally charmed by Estonia since day one, and I am looking forward to Tartu becoming my new home.