Oda's International Relations master has given her the opportunity to work with projects aiming to reduce marine plastic litter and microplastics.
- Name: Oda Kristin Korneliussen
- Study programme: Master of International Relations, 2014-2016
- Workplace: Avfall Norge ( Norwegian Waste Management and Recycling Association)
- Read more about the International Relations master
Tell us about your current job
I am coordinator at Avfall Norge, an organization that represents the Norwegian recycling industry. The organization is one of the driving forces for a circular economy in Norway, and also internationally.
A lot of my work is focused on the Norad-funded international aid project Clean Oceans through Clean Communities (CLOCC). The project aims to reduce marine plastic litter and microplastics by improving waste management in countries where a lot of waste accidentally ends up in nature and the sea. Currently, our projects are located in selected provinces in Indonesia and India, where we mobilize and collaborate with local authorities to develop more circular waste systems.
The project has a holistic perspective on the challenges, and looks at the underlying causes of marine plastic litter. We try to solve the problem in collaboration with local authorities and stakeholders, and to implement systems that have local ownership and adjusted to the local needs.
My work day is varied, and involves everything from daily operations and administration to strategic development of the project. I have a lot of contact with partners and follow up partner teams in Indonesia and India. I write quarterly and annual reports to Norad, and project applications. I also work with risk analyzes and various sustainability work, including sustainability reporting.
Other tasks are measuring target achievement and working with KPIs (Key Performance Indicators), communication and coordinating training programmes and events.
Why did you choose NMBU?
I wanted to combine international relations studies with subjects relating to sustainability. Therefore NMBU was a natural choice. NMBU provides a wide range of electives within environmental studies, and I was given the opportunity to tailor my own master's degree.
During my master's degree, my main interests were international economics, trade, environmental studies and sustainable international business.
In what ways is your degree relevant for your job?
A lot of the knowledge from my studies has been relevant, such as topics like international economics, global organizations, environmental studies and sustainability. The study gave me a general understanding of international processes, which is useful in the aid industry.
During my studies I developed my skills in communication, analysis and critical thinking. I gained international experience through internships in New York and Bangkok, which has been very useful in my job.
How did you experience being a student at NMBU?
It was great, both socially and academically. The quality of studies was good, with a wide selection of subjects within my areas of interest. I liked that the classes were relatively small, where teachers have the possibility to engage with students. There is a focus on group work and discussions during lectures.
What is the most important thing you learned through being a student?
Being critical of sources and information, being able to acquire new knowledge, working structured and to be able to collaborate with others.