With broad professional experience and a strong eye for structure and accountability, Trine has found her place at the intersection of technology, governance, and security.
Before starting her bachelor studies in Digital Assurance and Security Management at Noroff University College, Trine Sandstrand had already built experience across several industries – including logistics, healthcare, archives, and customer advisory roles. Her work gave her an early sense of responsibility and a deep understanding of structure, accuracy, and the importance of solid routines.
- I gained insight into how information is handled in practice – from documentation and personal data to systems that must function across roles and departments. It made me aware of how critical proper information management really is, she says.
Later, while working in the energy sector, she participated in the implementation and further development of new digital systems. The experience gave her concrete insight into how technological solutions affect workflows, data quality, and user experience – and at the same time, how important privacy, GDPR compliance, and regulatory adherence are in everyday operations.
- Technology gradually appeared to me as the link between people, processes, and regulations. I realized that the tech field offers the opportunity to work in a structured and analytical way, while contributing to safe and responsible solutions.
Deciding to Pursue Higher Education
The desire to strengthen her academic foundation and build a more comprehensive skill set made pursuing further education a natural next step. The transition also meant meeting formal academic requirements and building additional qualifications – a process that required planning, long-term focus, and determination.
- It gave me the opportunity to structure my path forward in a way that suited both my experience and my life situation.
When Noroff launched the bachelor in Digital Assurance and Security Management, it immediately resonated with her.
- The program combines technology, risk, governance, and responsibility. It’s not just about how systems function, but how they should be managed. Given today’s global landscape and the speed of technological development, I see this as highly relevant.
Starting without a traditional technical background did not feel like a disadvantage – quite the opposite.
- The program clearly shows that the tech field needs people with diverse perspectives. My background often led me to ask different questions and approach problems from a broader, more holistic angle.
A Strong Academic Community
Trines days are structured and goal-oriented. Lectures are pre-recorded and released every Monday morning, providing both predictability and flexibility. The rest of the week includes independent work, case assignments, and collaboration with fellow students.
- I work in a disciplined and systematic way, and I focus strongly on understanding how theory is applied in practice. I don’t rely much on motivation alone – I choose dedication.
The program offers a high degree of flexibility while maintaining clear expectations. The balance between freedom and structure has made it possible for her to combine her studies with responsibilities such as caring for her dog and running a small Norwegian Forest Cat breeding hobby.
- The flexibility allows freedom, while the structure ensures progress and academic quality.
Although the program is online-based, she has found the study experience far more social than she initially expected. Through collaboration, case discussions, and academic dialogue, she has built a strong professional and social network. Students meet both digitally and in person, and she highlights the diversity of age and background as a major strength.
- Learning alongside people with different perspectives leads to deeper understanding and better reflection. When we discuss challenges, we often see multiple sides of the same issue – and that makes the learning more nuanced and relevant.
She believes the sense of community has been essential for both motivation and quality of work, while also emphasizing personal responsibility.
- It would have been challenging to do everything alone. The community helps us grow together, but you have to actively choose to participate and contribute.
Relevance for the Future
What has surprised her most about the program is how strategic and decision-oriented it is. The coursework is based on real-world challenges that organizations actually face – not just abstract theory detached from practice.
- We work with concrete scenarios related to risk, governance, and compliance. It helps you understand how decisions are made in organizations and what consequences they can have.
She finds the competence directly relevant to the job market, especially for roles that combine leadership, risk assessment, and security.
- The subjects are closely linked to roles in leadership, risk management, and security. I see this as highly demanded and applicable competence.
The program has also changed how she views technology – both professionally and personally.
- I now see technology as a responsibility, not just a tool. Good technology requires good governance. It has also influenced how I use technology and social media in my daily life.
Looking ahead, she feels more confident about her career path.
- The program has given me clearer directions and greater confidence in my choices. It has actually become exciting to read job postings, and I look forward to applying what I’ve learned in practice.
In a few words, she describes the program as interdisciplinary, relevant, and future-oriented.
To those considering applying, she has a clear message:
- Don’t wait until you feel “ready.” The technology field needs people in different life stages and with different backgrounds. If you’re curious and motivated, you belong here. I would especially encourage more women to apply.
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