This week on Meet the Cast Monday, we would like for you to meet Marie Sandnes, a second semester traveler in the Up with People program from Bergen, Norway!
What was arrival day like for you?
“My arrival day was exciting! I had a very long travel day so I didn’t get the opportunity to meet too many people.”
What are some of your hobbies back at home?
“I play handball, which is a mix of soccer and basketball. I have played for nine years. I also enjoy hanging out with friends and family.”
What are you most excited for this semester?
“I am most excited to challenge myself more than I did my first semester. I didn’t take all the opportunities that I could have to learn about myself and other people. For example, I wanted to apply for an internship where I would shadow a staff member for a month and learn more about their job. I was nervous that I wouldn’t be able to do as well as I thought I could do, but coming in this semester I am really excited to take advantage of this opportunity.”
What are you most nervous for this semester?
“Coming back as a second semester in Up with People, it has been very strange being in a familiar program, but with a lot of different people. I am nervous that I won’t be able to branch out and meet new people. However, the people that I have met so far have been wonderful so maybe that will change.”
What has made your second semester experience different from your first semester experience?
“I have been a lot more comfortable during these first few weeks as we get ready for the tour. I think this allows me to have a much calmer approach to everything, and I really get to learn about different parts of the program that I missed last semester. Even though some of the workshops that we are doing are the same, I have found that I have an entirely new perspective on them because of my experiences last semester.”
What advice would you give to a 1st time traveler in Up with People?
“Take the chances you’re given! They are only going to happen once, so be sure to talk to and get to know as many people on the way!”
From your time in Denver this semester, what are some differences you have seen between Norway and Colorado?
“In Colorado, people tend to be very open and upfront. In Norway, people tend to be a bit more reserved. It is interesting to see the difference in lifestyles. I also have had a variety of new foods here which has been nice!”
What is one place you want to travel to and why?
“I am excited to travel to Canada. We went there last semester as well and I noticed several similarities between Norwegian and Canadian culture. It’s also a place that I have wanted to visit for long time.”
“Time for the music to play,
Time for the band to start.
Time for the music to play,
Time for us all today.”Time For The Music © Up with People
Good interview with Marie! She’s a woman with talent, character, and most of all, heart!
Rich and Kim Bartlett
Marie’s Oklahoma “Family”