1. 13 October, 2012
I have had the pleasure of teaching Isak Rathe Støre physics at the most advanced level offered in the
Norwegian school system from November 2011 to present date.
Isak is at the top of his class in physics. He performs very well both with regards to the actual
understanding of physics and physical theories, and the mathematics needed to turn these theories
into tangible results. In addition, he has portrayed a genuine interest and fascination for physics,
engineering and science in general often asking questions well outside of the normal curriculum. This
interest and fascination was particularly evident during a class trip to a solar cell plant in Sweden last
semester or when he chose to attend a voluntary gathering at the roof of the Oslo Opera House to
watch the Venus transit early in the morning on 6th
June 2012. He also attacks any new subject with
an enthusiasm that is quite rare to find these days and has an excellent work ethics, something he
showed clearly during the last school year. For most of the autumn semester he attended George
Watson’s College in Edinburgh, and since the curriculum in Norway and Great Britain differs in both
physics and mathematics, there were several topics we here in Norway teach during the autumn
semester that he was not taught during his stay at George Watson’s College. Upon his return he
taught himself the parts of the curriculum he had missed with little to no help in addition to
attending normal lessons at Oslo Commerce School resulting in top grades both in physics and
mathematics.
On a personal level I find Isak a delightful young man and a pleasure to teach. Although he is
conscientious to his approach to his work and is completely committed to it, he has a relaxed manner
and a delightful sense of humour. He never becomes disheartened at the amount of learning that is
required. He is a popular member of the class and his enthusiasm for learning is infectious. To
conclude; here you have a student who I would strongly recommend for a place at any university he
might choose.
If you have any further questions, please contact me at halvor.midthaug@ohg.vgs.no.
Sincerely,
Halvor Midthaug
Physics teacher
Oslo Handelsgymnasium (Oslo Commerce School)