I moved to Norway nine years ago. Being stereotyped as an American helped me get ahead at work, but it's tough making friends and the weather isn't for everyone.

Thu, 08/31/2023 - 06:08

Emily Northway smiling on a boat with Norwegian cliffs in the background — Emily Northway booked a one-way ticket to Norway in 2014. Now she's applying for citizenship.
Courtesy of Emily Northway

Emily Northway, 31, moved from Utah to Oslo, Norway, after graduating college in 2014.
Northway said Norwegians think of Americans as outgoing and that has created opportunities for her.
With the culture shock and long winters she faced, Northway cautions against romanticizing the move.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Emily Northway about her experience moving to Norway in 2014 and acclimating to its culture. The conversation has been edited for length and clarity.