Dialects Can Be Challenging!
David arrived in Norway in 2023. Thanks to Folkeuniversitetet's Norwegian courses, he learned the language at a record pace. His advice to others learning Norwegian: "Dive in right away!"
Text: Hilde Aas Rønningen
David Gardenier (30) was born in New Zealand and moved to the Netherlands at the age of 12. His adventurous spirit and longing for the nature he grew up with brought him to Norway. Along with his belongings, he carried a Ph.D. in astrophysics and a wish to find a job that benefits society.
After settling in Oslo, David quickly signed up for Norwegian courses. He found Folkeuniversitetet through an online search and as he was already familiar with the concept from the Netherlands, the choice was easy.
His motivation for taking the course was to find a job where he could use Norwegian as the working language. He also wanted to integrate as well as possible into Norwegian society. "It's incredibly difficult to be a prat of society without the language," David believes.
Tailored Teaching for Everyone
The Dutchman started the Norwegian course at Folkeuniversitetet in February 2023 and has attended all courses at the B2 and C1 levels.
"For me, it was important to attend a physical classroom course. It made me focus more, both in front of the teacher and fellow students, and it was easier to converse with people in the same room," says David.
The teachers were good at differentiating among the group members and challenging everyone at their level. This allowed me to make good progress. This was possible due to the size of the group; we were around 12 people," David explains. "We got homework each time, which was helpful. We wrote texts and essays, and we received detailed feedback on them." He highlights his teacher, Truls Danielsen, as a skilled motivator who challenged them and provided fun facts about the Norwegian language. "So I even learned to spice up my language a bit," he says.
Speak Norwegian!
While taking the Norwegian course, David got a job at Bane Nor as a data analyst, where he builds AI solutions to improve train operations, including better delay forecasts.
"I've been very conscious of making sure people don't speak English to me. If they do, I stop them and ask to continue the conversation in Norwegian," David smiles.
What do you find most challenging about the Norwegian language?
"The dialects! I have colleagues from different parts of the country. I struggle a bit with that," David laughs. "But I've learned to ask questions, and I often discuss language with colleagues over lunch."
A New Life in Norway
David's daily life now consists of work, socializing with friends, and volunteering for the Norwegian Trekking Association—a natural place for a nature enthusiast to get involved! "Volunteering has given me good language practice. I have also gained greater insight into Norwegian culture, where outdoor life and nature play an important role for many Norwegians."
David's partner, Daniëlle from the Netherlands, has now joined him. Together, they hope to build a future in Norway. "That has been the plan all along," David concludes.
David's Tips for Learning Norwegian
· Don't hesitate; start speaking the language as soon as possible.
· Attend a language course!
· Don't let people speak English to you. Stop them and say you want to try speaking Norwegian.
· Participate in conversations and ask if you don't understand words and expressions.
· Allow people to correct you. That's how you learn!