STUDENT REPORT 2009 UC BERKELEY
Name of the University: University of California, Berkeley
Names of the student: Anne Solhaug, Eleni Figenschou, Elisabeth Marki, Håkon Kopperud, Ida
Skeie, Ingrid Bjerknes, Linn Amundsen, Magnus Bakke, Marja RomannAas, Roger Lea, Susann Løstegård, Åsmund Pedersen, Kristin Bergan
Bjøro.
Exchange semester: January - May 2009
1. ACADEMIC INFORMATION
The Teaching situation

All courses were taught in English

The teaching was based on lecture notes which were theoretical and through a few inclassroom discussions.

The teaching was both practical and theoretical

Our professor used examples from real world business cases in recent time that could
reflect on the theories and knowledge we were learning about.

Opposite to BI, there were Reaction papers that were to be handed in throughout the
semester, and additionally there was a midterm exam and a final exam. Furthermore,
attendance stands for 10% of the grade, as attendance is obligatory. This method I
believe is much more valuable and teaches the students to be more effective throughout
the whole semester, rather than completing one single exam in the end of the semester.

Our professor Phillip Gordon was very easy to contact either via phone or email. He would
respond promptly, and we had a great communication with him, in comparison to
professors at BI. I believe there is more relationship focus in the US than in Norway
between the faculty staff and students.

Many Norwegian Exchange students took the same classes. Though in the classes I took,
there was a vast majority of American students, and international students from all over
the world. Approximately 100 people in the classroom I believe.
Required Literature

All literature provided was in English. The only required literature is the articles and lecture
notes posted by the professor.

The academic level of the relevant literature is quite manageable and the posted material is
very easy to follow and to understand. I believe the literature at UC Berkeley was at the same
academic level as at BI. However, since we studied Sociology, this gave a lot of more focus to
reasoning, and backing up your statements rather than the subjects at BI where there is a
concrete right and wrong answer. Because there is no right and wrong answer you are able to
state your own opinion as a respond to exam questions as long as you are able back it up with
reasonable arguments. The required literature therefore becomes more of a guide, giving you
a sense of direction and providing you with literary support rather than being material to be
memorized.

The Reaction Papers that were due throughout the semester were solely based on articles we
were given to read. The Midterm Exam was based on lecture notes that were given up until
the date of the Midterm Exam and from classroom discussions. (Which were based on the
lecture notes). Similarly, the Final Exam was based on the lectures and notes from the
Midterm Exam up until the end of the semester in May.

We were given a lot of articles to read as well, which had a connection with the lecture notes,
though this had no importance for the exams, this was just additional information we could
read if we were interested in reading more about the subject.

In order to pass the exams or the Reaction Papers, it was crucial that the students were able
to read and understand the text with the question asked. Furthermore, arguments had to be
made, and the essence of backing up the statement made with good arguments was essential
in order to receive a good grade. The Readers (people correcting the reaction papers and
exams) did not look very closely on grammar mistakes on the Norwegian student’s papers,
though a certain level of English was obviously required in order to write at the required level
and writing standard Berkeley expects from its students.
Exams

What types of exams were you given?
In both classes we had a midterm exam in March and a final exam in May. These exams were
so-called “take home”-exams which implied that all examination aids were permitted.
However, the students had to answer using their own words. Approximately one week before
the midterms and finals the students had a chance to prepare as 20 questions were posted on
bSpace whereas ten of them were given on the actual exam. The questions were covering
materials and lecture notes from lectures up until the date of the exams; and each question
did not require more than one paragraph answer.
In addition to midterms and finals we had to write five one-to-two paged Reaction Papers, in
10-point front, in each class throughout the semester. The Reaction Papers were simply
questions or statements that we had to answer and discuss and then submit on bSpace. The
statements and questions were based on articles posted on bSpace.

What knowledge level was required to pass the exams?
It was essential that the students attended classes and read lecture notes in addition to being
familiar with the articles that our professor posted on bSpace. The Reaction Papers
demanded that the students had opinions and were able to give solid argumentation to the
statement or question. The Readers, who were grading the papers and exams, did not pay too
much attention to grammar mistakes as to the quality of the argumentation. However, a
certain level of English knowledge was required and necessary in order to understand the
questions being asked on exams and Reaction Papers, reading lecture notes and articles as
well as getting the most out of classes.
Other

Berkeley consists of 27 libraries. There were always people ready to help, and to give advice
of which literature should be studied if there was a specific topic anyone was interested in
studying further.

The libraries were open until late (11.pm or some even 2.am in the morning) which made the
libraries available for students at nearly all times.

Regarding computer access, there were some computer labs. These were often full, therefore
the most efficient is to bring an own laptop. There is no problem in logging onto AirBairs which
is the school’s online network. Each Norwegian student is given a student ID number and a
password phrase they have to make themselves which has to be registered in order to log
onto the UC Berkeley internet.

All our information between the teacher, reader and students was handed out through
Berkeley’s intranet called bSpace. BSpace is quite similar to BI’s Blackboard. Here students
can check their grades, the teacher or reader can write information or notifications that are
automatically sent to the students. This method worked very well, and gives a great overview
over the progression. All lecture notes was posted on bSpace as well. Both articles and
obligatory lecture notes. Exams and Reaction Papers were also posted on bSpace. When we
were to hand in an assignment, we uploaded our document onto bSpace. This made it
possible for the teacher to easily check that the document was handed in on time via the clock
that registered the time the document was handed in.
Description of Courses
Course name:
SOC121 Corporate Social Responsibility
SOC123 Innovation, entrepreneurship
SOC Independent Study
Exam
written
written
written
Approved as
Elective
Obligatory
Bachelors thesis
Soc 121 was about innovation and entrepreneurship and soc 123 was CSR (corporate social
responsibility) and I do think that both these two courses had a big relevance to the major at BI in
Norway since we here got to see a different side of business. And learned how a business can make
money at the same time as they are doing CSR or being innovative and coming up with new ideas and
ways of doing things.
The courses were not too hard as long as you stayed up to date and read what was expected of you
before classes. And did the assignments they said you had to do. Mostly you had to use what you
learned and use it with your own opinions when it came to reaction papers that had to be handed in
every 2 weeks.
Both courses were theoretical. Sitting and listening to a professor talking and taking notes. The
classes were too big to sit and talk and make cases in class, so the grades were only based on how
you did on the reaction papers and exams.
There weren’t really any enrollment problems. The school had already assigned enough room in the
classes for the exchange students there so everyone who wanted of the exchange students could take
the courses of their choice without being afraid that they wouldn’t get enrolled. The professor and the
exchange student office were always willing to help if we had anything that we were wondering about.
And they responded as soon as they could.
2. PRACTICAL INFORMATION ON THE SCHOOL AND THE EXCHANGE EXPERIENCE
Information before you left

BI and the international office were great in providing us with information we needed prior to
our departure to the United States. Additionally, the American Embassy was very helpful
regarding visa issues.
Visa Procedure and travel experiences
 All the information required to know regarding the student visa to enter the United States lies
on the homepage of the American Embassy. If you choose to call, they are also very helpful.
You need to apply for a visa several weeks in advance, and they keep your Passport for the
time you apply until the time you have received your student visa. The visa costs NOK 700. It
is important to bring all necessary documents which you print out from the US Embassy home
page, and sign them correctly. It is also important to notice do not bring any bags or hand
luggage to the embassy, as this is not allowed and there is no storage place to store your
belongings. (http://norway.usembassy.gov/.)

It is important to have NAV’s health insurance and additionally have a student insurance ready
before departure. The US Government requires this. I bought mine at Europeiske.no. This
cost me about NOK 1800, and covers everything. I highly recommend.

Prior to flight, all passengers flying into the United States are required to log in online and fill
out the customs declaration form minimum 2 days before departure. This procedure does not
take place on the airplanes anymore.

Regarding my flight ticket, I bought it at Supersaver. no. There I bought my ticket only 3 weeks
ahead of departure, and the ticket cost 6000 NOK roundtrip from Oslo to San Francisco and
back. There was no possibility of changing the ticket, and it was not refundable though. I did
buy with flight insurance in case of a cancellation so this was included.
Academic Calendar

Prior to departure, we attended a 3 day seminar weekend at BI, Oslo. Here we met up with the
other students travelling to Berkeley, from all BI institutions all over the country. During these 3
days we went through practical information regarding what we could expect studying and
living abroad additionally to information regarding the study and business environment we
were about to explore.

When we arrived at UC Berkeley, the semester began in the beginning of January and lasted
until the 6th of May. I had classes twice a week on Monday and Wednesdays from 4. pm –
7.30 pm. There was a 30 minute break between the two lectures. We had spring break in the
middle of the semester. Besides that, we only had days off when there were national holidays
in the United States.
Reception

As exchange students we were part of the university’s concurrent enrollment program. The
first day, all the exchange students from Norway were welcomed by Olga Paly. She is located
in the Berkeley extension office, a couple of blocks away from campus. (On University
Avenue). She was very friendly, and gave all the practical information needed in regards to
internet access, bSpace, schooling situation etc. As all the Norwegian students were attending
various classes and courses, she only gave basic information. In addition, there was a police
man present, talking about security on campus. Letting us know what streets were not so
good at night, and gave us all a flute which drew attention if there was an emergency. All the
police’s department’s contact information was given out to the students, through a little booklet
that everyone received. We also had several meetings in the beginning with the headof
sociology Trond Pettersen where he informed us about the things that were different for the
Norwegian students and especially for the BI students. There was always someone that could
answer our questions either at the concurrent enrollment office or by contacting them directly
by email or phone so we had few problems with the practical issues.
Housing

About half of the students had arranged a place to live before they arrived, while the rest
found a place to live after they had arrived at Berkley. There are a couple of motels on
University Street a couple of blocks from campus, where some people stayed. (Travelodge
e.g.). I lived in an apartment 8 blocks from school, and it took us 13 minutes to walk to school.
There was an option of bus transport, though this was not necessary for us. Others lived in
apartments with up to 5 people together, while some rented themselves into the “Ski house”,
which is equivalent to a frat house. Here they shared a room, though this was quite expensive.
Approximately 650 USD each. Rent varies, though we paid 1400 USD/3 so our place was
fairly cheap. The standard of the apartments also vary a lot. I would say they are the same as
Oslo standard or less. Most apartments and houses at Berkeley are not newly built, and are
not taken are of in the state of manner I would take care of an apartment. I guess cultural
differences are a reason for this.

The Berkeley Exchange office has some contacts of landlords that rent out their place to
students, so if there are any problems in finding a place to stay, they are the right people to
contact! Contact: Melrease Epperson, mel@berkeley.edu, +1 (510) 642 1194

Craigslist- www.craigslist.com is another option. Quite similar to Finn.no. We found our
apartment here.
Costs

As mentioned above, there is quite a variety in price when it comes to apartment rent. The
price is probably similar to Oslo prices. Eating out is much cheaper than in Norway, though the
food at Andironico’s food store is approximately the same price or more expensive. Cosco is
very cheap, here you buy larger quantum. Safeway is also cheaper, especially if you
subscribe for the free Safeway card which gives you great discounts on the total amount of the
purchase.
The international office

The extension office
The extension office provided us a lot of information before we left to Berkeley. When we
arrived a woman named Olga Paly welcomed us, and gave all the Norwegian exchange
student practical information regards to internet access, paper forms, schooling situation etc. If
you wanted to leave the US on a vacation, you had to get a signature from the extension office
on your I-90 form. One may say that the extension office was responsible for all practical
things that were needed regards to our schooling situation, and they were very helpful and
accommodating.

Berkeley International Office
The Berkeley international office is located in Piedmont Avenue, a couple of blocks from
campus. They had office hours Monday to Friday 9-12 a.m. and 1-4 p.m. Their mission is to
enhance the academic, cultural, and social experiences of international students, scholars,
faculty, and staff, and to provide the highest levels of knowledge and expertise in advising,
immigration services, advocacy, and programming.
I believe that none of the Norwegian exchange students were involved and visited the
international office owing to the fact that the extension office provided us with necessary
information and functioned basically as a substitute for the international office.
Social Activities

We ended up with many friends; we were all very interested in meeting new people and
were always out and about. We made many good friendships we hopefully will have for
many years to come. It wasn't all easy and it doesn't come without effort. Though,
relationships with the other students are what you make of it. In class, being in a
big group from Norway might seem a bit intimidating for other students. The best way
to make friends in class is simply starting up a conversation. A well working way
for us to get to know others was to go out participate in activities we liked, be
open and welcoming to people. That was where we met our closest friends. We also
consciously had our focus at Berkeley and other students, I can't imagine we would
have gotten as many friends amongst the other students if we had spent all our time
in San Francisco as could be tempting.

Among the students in our group we had a really good tone. You will always connect
better with some than others, but we all made good friends and we truly had a great
time. Most of us lived together with others from the group and very few of us had
experiences with living on top of three or four practically strangers. It made us
bond closer and we learned lots from the experience. In a situation like this it
might be a bit difficult to "break out" of the group; however I think we were all
aware of the challenges we could face in this concern and wanted to step out and
make sure we got American friends as well. Again, it is what you make of it.

The experience was great, and the social life was always full of activity. Besides all the social
going out with friends, the campus has a lot to offer. There was a student gym called the Cal
Rec Club located on campus, there were tennis courts, soccer fields, baseball fields, dancing
classes, swimming pools, volleyball nets, etc. Sports at Berkeley were a lot of fun, especially
since there is such a school spirit for “Cal Bears” – the school’s sports teams. It is a great
experience to watch the sports games against other universities such as Stanford e.g. There
is one bar which is called Bairs Lair – this is the sports bar on campus all the students hang
out especially during a sports match. There are two other places famous for students to go out
at Berkeley; Kips and Raleys. The standard is really bad in these places, though I guess this is
a part of the student environment at Berkeley as there is nothing much better around…
Berkeley is very hippie. There are several activities at Berkeley all year around, therefore it is
important to log onto Berkeley’s event homepage in order to be updated on events and social
happenings such as concerts e.g. on campus. Overall, there is a vibrant social life at Berkeley,
ready to attract and draw attention to any person with any personality trait.

There are many student organizations. You can find the organizations on www.berkeley.edu.
Here there is a list of all different types of student organizations. Even though most Norwegian
exchange students choose not to participate as their stay is only for 4-5 months. Moreover if
you play a sport like for example soccer (Norwegian football), I would recommend trying to get
on one of the teams that Berkeley has. There you will get to travel and make good friends.

There are no special gatherings that BI has arranged for the exchange students. This is
except from the general information meetings in the beginning of the semester.
What you should do is to pay attention to other events: there are always some sports games
being held in the weekends (tennis, rugby, water polo, football and basketball), concerts in the
area and parties held at the fraternity houses.

I love the school. The campus has so much more to offer than what I am used to in Norway.
The students seems take the studies seriously (enough) and the professors are well educated
and experienced in the fields they teach in. Moreover there are several big libraries that have
great reading and studying facilities.
Culture and Language

There was no difficulty in adapting to speak English as an everyday language. My impression
is that the Americans were astonished by our English fluency, which was positive. I do not
know of anyone who had difficulty in understanding the Americans.

Berkeley is a great hub if you would like to travel to other parts of the United States or within
California. San Francisco is located only 15 minutes away driving, or approximately 20
minutes away with the “bart” train. Lake Tahoe is famous for skiing activities and is located
only 4 hours driving from Berkeley. Los Angeles and Santa Barbara are easy to drive to
through 101 or Highway 1 along the coast. Highway 1 is said to be one of the most beautiful
coastlines in the world due to the high cliffs and rigid terrain. LA, Miami, Las Vegas or even
New York are easily accessible with a cheap flight ticket, and living costs in these places
varies depending on the budget. In spring break many students go to Cabo or to Cancun in
Mexico. There are so many options, and enough to do in the spare time!
Cultural and Social Effects from the Exchange Experience

Living in Berkeley is different from Norway. This area is known to be one of the most liberal
areas in the U.S, and it is not hard to tell why. One gets a priceless insight in a different way of
living, blended with what we might call a “normal” lifestyle. Living in the middle of this have
enabled us to see things a little bit different than what we did before leaving Norway, one
realizes that its not only the “Norwegian” society that is the right one, and you learn to like this
extraordinary diversity. In the longer perspective we believe that this experience will enable us
to understand people from other cultures in a better way. In a future business- related context
one might experience things that may be hard to understand, and this stay in a multi-cultural
society might enable us to better understand why things are the way they are.

UC Berkeley has been elected one of the top universities in the world, and will definitely bring
a positive impact on my choice of future career and influence me in the path I wish to pursue.
UC Berkeley opens the horizon of new ideas, perspectives and opportunities I believe I would
never have been introduced to if I had stayed in Norway. UC Berkeley is located close to
Silicon Valley which is the most innovative areas in the world when it comes to new ventures.
This opens opportunities if there is an interest in bringing a new concept to Norway with
inspiration from here. Altogether, future employees will most definite look upon the semester
abroad as a very positive experience, and this might give you an advantage in competition for
a dream job. I would not exchange my semester at Berkeley for anything, as it has given me
an experience of a lifetime both academically and socially. I highly recommend this concurrent
enrolment program to anyone who is able to apply from BI Norwegian school of Management.
E-mail: Anne.C.Solhaug@student.bi.no, eleni.figenschou@student.bi.no,
Elisabeth.Marki@student.bi.no, Hakon.Kopperud@student.bi.no, Ida.M.Skeie@student.bi.no,
Linn.K.Amundsen@student.bi.no, Magnus.G.Bakke@student.bi.no, Marja.L.RomannAas@student.bi.no, Roger.Lea@student.bi.no, Susann.Lostegard@student.bi.no,
Asmund.Y.Pedersen@student.bi.no, Kristin.B.Bjoro@student.bi.no.
ingrid_bjerknes@hotmail.com