Elise Sirisdatter Hagen
Elise first came to Svalbard as part of her bachelor’s degree in Arctic Outdoor Life, a mandatory component of her studies. Set to graduate in the spring of 2025, the Kristiansand native has now spent a year in the High Arctic—and has quickly become a devoted fan of life at 78 degrees north.
“Svalbard offers nature experiences unlike anywhere else, and I already have a lifetime’s worth of unforgettable memories.”
Elise’s expertise extends beyond her degree—she has also completed the Arctic Nature Guide (ANG) program, recently earned her activity leader certification, and is now specializing in kayaking.
Naturally, the outdoors plays a huge role in her life—not just at work, but in her free time as well. Whether on long hikes, ski expeditions, or summiting Svalbard’s peaks in winter, Elise embraces every adventure the Arctic has to offer.
When asked to recommend a must-try experience near Longyearbyen, her answer is clear: ice cave exploration. “Especially during the polar night, descending into the thousand-year-old beauty of the ice is a truly otherworldly experience.”