After working in industries ranging from aquaculture and healthcare to sales, security, and retail, Kristine Berg wasn't necessarily looking for a new career. What she needed was a way of studying that could fit around her life.
Today, she is studying Data Analyst online at Noroff. The path that led her there has been anything but straightforward.
– To some people, it might look like I've tried a little bit of everything, but for me it's always been driven by curiosity, she says.
Before starting her studies, Kristine had worked across several industries, including aquaculture, healthcare, sales, and security. She also previously completed a one-year programme in social sciences.
– From a young age, I gained experience in a wide range of workplaces and environments. Looking back, I actually think that has been a strength. It has given me insight into how people, organisations, and systems work.
Curiosity as the Common Thread
Although her jobs have varied, she can now see a clear common thread running through them all.
– The one thing that has followed me throughout almost everything I've done is a desire to understand how things connect. I've always been curious by nature and interested in understanding why things work the way they do.
She describes herself as someone who enjoys observing, identifying patterns, and solving problems.
– When I discovered data analytics, it felt like a very natural direction for me.
Data analytics is about collecting, analysing, and visualising data to generate insights and support better decision-making. Today, these skills are used across industries ranging from technology and finance to healthcare, retail, and the public sector.
– I enjoy challenges, and I enjoy having to work my way towards a solution. That's often where I find my motivation.
Needing a Study Routine That Fit Her Life
When Kristine decided to return to education, she had recently come through a difficult period of illness.
– I spent about a year focusing on my health and rebuilding my strength. It was about finding a new balance that worked both mentally and physically.
As time passed, thoughts about the future began to surface again.
– Once I felt ready, I wanted to invest in my future. But I also knew I needed flexibility.
That became one of the main reasons she chose Noroff online studies.
– Noroff felt like a natural choice because the programme is flexible and delivered online. For me, it wasn't just about getting an education. It was about finding a way of studying that could genuinely work alongside the life I already had.
The Freedom to Learn in Her Own Way
For Kristine, online studies have been essential — not just because of the convenience, but because they make it possible to keep going over the long term.
– I have ADHD, and I've learned that I function best when I can adapt things to how I'm actually feeling, rather than trying to force myself into a structure that doesn't suit me.
– I actually do well with routines, but I appreciate having the freedom to manage my own time on days when I have less energy. For me, flexibility is primarily about having a study experience that makes it possible to keep going over the long term.
Motivated by Challenges
One of the things she appreciates most about the programme is the sense of achievement it brings.
– After a period where so much of my energy went into simply getting back to a functioning everyday life, it has been incredibly rewarding to challenge myself academically again.
– Data analytics isn't just about numbers. It's about understanding what those numbers are actually telling you. That fits very well with the way I like to think.
Through her studies, she has also gained a much clearer picture of the opportunities available within the field, and a greater appreciation for the value of her previous work experience.
– Having experienced different workplaces and challenges gives me the ability to see things from multiple perspectives. I think that can be a real strength when it comes to analysing problems and finding solutions.
You Don't Have to Follow a Straight Path
For anyone considering studying Data Analytics or choosing an online programme, Kristine has a clear message.
– You don't need a perfect background or a straight-line journey to get here. Everyone's life looks different, and that's completely okay.
– If you're curious, enjoy understanding how things connect, and are motivated by solving challenges, I think this can be a really exciting field of study.
For Kristine, online studies became a way to build on everything she already had — her experiences, her curiosity, and her willingness to learn on her own terms.
Learn more about online studies at Noroff and find the programme that's right for you.
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