“There’s a great international mix on campus“

What are you studying?

I am studying masters in polar law.

Why did you choose the University of Akureyri and your particular programme?

Honestly, when I started looking into Polar studies, and indigenous peoples rights, I knew I didn't want to just read about the region from a textbook far away I wanted to actually be in the Arctic. When you're dealing with things like Arctic governance, climate policy, and indigenous rights, location matters so much.

To me, HA was hands down the best place to do this course. The university is super well-known internationally for this specific area, and Akureyri sits right on the edge of the Arctic Circle. Being here means the things we talk about in class are happening right outside our window. You are surrounded by the environment and the real-world issues every single day, which makes the learning experience feel so alive. I honestly couldn't imagine doing this anywhere else.

What surprised you the most about your chosen programme?

What surprised me the most was discovering that the course isn't just about the Arctic it covers Antarctica too! Coming from Uganda, Antarctica is a place that barely gets mentioned. In many parts of Africa, people rarely talk about the South Pole or even realize there is a whole legal system dedicated to managing an entire uninhabited continent.

Learning about the Antarctic Treaty System, environmental protections down there, and how decisions made at both poles affect global climate and ocean systems was an absolute eye-opener for me.

I also didn't expect the studies to be so hands-on and connected across disciplines. You don't just sit around memorizing static laws; you are constantly connecting climate science, environmental conservation, and human rights to figure out how we actually protect these unique places.

What is student life in Akureyri like, in your opinion?

Student life in Akureyri is cozy, close-knit, and very welcoming. Coming from Uganda, adjusting to the dark winters and cold weather was definitely a shock at first, but the community here makes you feel at home right away.

Because it’s a smaller town, you are never just a face in a crowd you bump into classmates and professors everywhere, whether grabbing coffee in town or warming up in the local geothermal pools after lectures. There’s a great international mix on campus, so we spend a lot of time-sharing meals from home, studying together, and running outside whenever the Northern Lights appear. It’s a quieter lifestyle, but that’s what makes it special you form deep friendships here.

What is your favourite memory from your time at HA?

My favourite memory has to be during one of our first weeks in class after arriving. We were sitting in a lecture when the weather suddenly changed out of the blue, and it started snowing heavily right outside the classroom window. For many of us international students, it was our very first snow in Iceland!

Everyone paused and looked out the window in absolute awe. After class, we all ran outside together like excited kids to take photos and experience it. Combining that moment with late-night potlucks and watching the Northern Lights with friends from all over the world made me realize just how special this journey was going to be.

What advice would you give to students who are just starting the Polar Law programme

My biggest piece of advice is to come with an open mind and don't be afraid to speak up, even if your background isn't strictly in law. Polar studies connect so many different areas from climate science and indigenous rights to global politics so every perspective brought into the classroom adds real value.

On a practical level, embrace the environment and the weather! Invest in a proper warm coat, go to the local geothermal pools to unwind, and take time to build relationships with your classmates. You'll be studying alongside people from all over the world, and the international friendships and network you form here in Akureyri are just as valuable as the degree itself.