The concept of being surrounded by the Northeast Tennessee Mountains and the neighboring sounds of bluegrass music is something that some people in this area may take for granted.  Signe Salvesen is not one of these people. In fact, she traveled thousands miles from Norway to this area to be inspired by and immersed in studying the bluegrass music that originates in this area.

 

After obtaining her Bachelor Degree in music performance at the University of Agder (Kristiansand City, Norway), Salvesen decided pursuing a study abroad experience at ETSU was her next big step. Salvesen was looking for a change from the focus on pop music emphasized by her program in Norway. The change Salvesen sought was working in bluegrass music. “I came here to get in-depth experience with the blue grass music. I wanted the chance to study with students who have the same passions for the music that I do.”

 

ETSU was just the place Signe was looking for to get this type of musical experience.  ETSU is the only 4-year university in the world to have a comprehensive bluegrass music program.  Following an informational international exchange meeting at her school where she first learned of ETSU, Signe did some research and learned about the bluegrass program.  “I had always dreamed about coming here, and learning about blue grass and where it came from. I had read about it in books, but we don’t have much of it in Norway,” said Signe.  Now she had found the perfect opportunity to explore her dream of studying the art of bluegrass music.  But first she had to get through the application and exchange processes.

 

According to Signe, it took approximately a year to complete all the paperwork necessary to finalize the application and exchange processes. Within that year, she also had to be successful on an English test, apply for a visa, and get a new passport. Salvesen received help from the International Programs Office at her university, as well as, advice from other exchange students and friends who had been to the United States.  Signe states that, “I knew as long as I stuck with what they told me in the meeting and conversations then it would work out as planned.”

 

During her time at ETSU, Signe has faced some challenges. She reports she arrived on campus two days before the semester started. She felt a little overwhelmed by the new environment, especially finding out where things were and who she was supposed to meet. One piece of advice Signe offers students thinking about pursuing a study abroad experience is to go early to their destination because it will hopefully alleviate worries and stress. 

 

As for planning and financing her study abroad experience, Signe found there were some fees that she was not aware of when she applied.  Therefore, she suggests that prospective study abroad students should be fully aware of the various financial charges at the institution where they will be studying.  She also commented she wished she had more spending money, as she joking says, “I think I should have probably worked a little more this summer to have some more money to enjoy myself.”

 

Despite the challenges, Signe encourages other students to pursue their study abroad dreams because it  is a great opportunity to learn new cultures. In addition, she feels strongly that students can learn more about their own culture as they experience and become immersed in other cultures. Signe also advises students to remain open-minded during their study abroad experiences. She says, “It may seem hard in the beginning when things are new and you don’t understand the cultural differences, but if you stay on track it’s worth it.”

 

As for Signe’s plans, she is currently classified as a special undergraduate student in ETSU’s bluegrass music program for the remainder of the year.  As she discusses her plans following the end of the semester she says, “Maybe I will study Norwegian folk music back home, and take back with me the American folk music that I have learned here.”