Which course are you studying and what year are you in?

MChiro year 4 – the final year of study.
 

What drew you to study this subject?

Growing up, I was an active football player who suffered various injuries, and therefore, I was often found being treated by a chiropractor.

My passion for this profession grew significantly when I saw and felt the benefits of the treatment I received. So, I was drawn to this type of work; it felt like it chose me.
 

Why did you choose AECC University College?

I have always wanted to study abroad, and as there are no chiropractic universities in Norway, AECC was the perfect setting for me. I would have loved to study in Australia or US, but the trip from Norway is far too long.
 

How did you find moving from Norway to the UK to study?

I was only 19 when I moved to the UK, so it was a big transition in my life. I found it very exciting and maturing, but of course, scary. That decision to study abroad is probably the best decision, as it allowed me to grow as much as a person.
 

Are you involved in any student societies, or do you compete in any of the AECC Sports clubs?

I joined the football Uni-team when I started at AECC and played with them until year 3. During this last year of study, I have decided not to participate as I have a troubled right knee. But it must be said that playing for the football team has created some of my best moments at AECC UC. Societies at AECC UC allows you to meet new people with fellow interest and make memories together. Therefore, I highly recommend every student to join one.
 

What do you love most about living in Bournemouth / UK?

The culture. I have always loved visiting the UK, so finally, living here has given me much more insight into the UK environment. Living here by myself pushed me to meet new people from different cultures, which has resulted in great friendships I would never have experienced if I had chosen to study in Norway.
 

What are your ambitions for the future?

I am very passionate about sports, so my ambition is to take my chiropractic education into a sports field, so I can help athletes avoid injuries and perform at their best.
 

What would you say to school/college leavers who are thinking of studying abroad?

Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. It is easy and comfortable to join local universities with your friends but studying abroad in a new place with new people will open opportunities you would never have experienced if you had just decided to stay home.

Life is too short to stay in one place. Experience the world while you can!
 

How did the Across the Pond team help you?

Across the Pond was extremely helpful in my process of applying for AECC University College. When I first reached out to them, I was clueless as my school could not provide any information for me. Luckily my Across the Pond student advisor explained how they would support my AECC University College application. He provided everything I needed to prepare my application and what my letter should include to stand out from the crowd. He always answered questions I had and constantly gave me updates on where we were in the application process and what deadlines we aimed for.

I am grateful for reaching out to Across the Pond, as I felt calm and confident throughout the application process.

- Hans Martin