Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

So Much Learning in Copenhagen Past Review

By (Urban Studies, Trinity University) - abroad from 01/17/2015 to 05/17/2015 with

DIS Copenhagen: Semester

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I have become so much more confident in myself and ability to do whatever is asked/required of me. I learned a lot about how I react in different situations and deal with new cultures & people. My semester abroad was completely worthwhile.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 2 weeks - 1 month

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

While not overwhelming, classes are a significant part of the DIS Copenhagen experience. However, the students are not confined to just classroom work - at least two field studies per class are required, everyone participates in study tours outside of Copenhagen at least once, and there are multiple options for learning outside the classroom. Like anything though, the educational experience depends on how much a person puts into it.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I lived with a host family during my semester in Copenhagen and it was one of the best choices I have ever made. There's nothing quite like going home to a family that wants to hear about your day and talk and just hang out. It definitely helped me transition into living in a new country much more easily.

* Food:

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Living with a host family definitely helped me see different sides of Danish culture that a lot of students weren't able to see.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

Copenhagen is incredibly safe. While all students should obviously be cautious and aware of their surroundings, I very rarely felt uncomfortable while in the city.

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

Finances

* Money: How easily were you able to live on a student's budget?

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

Living with a host family helped so much - the only food I ever bought were snacks and the occasional ingredients for a meal.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
How much did the program encourage you to use the language?

0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? None
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Beginner
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? None
How many hours per day did you use the language?
Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? Danish is a difficult language to learn. Put yourself out there and try - all attempts are appreciated even if you can't actually be understood.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with?

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Host family
  • Study tours w/ core class
  • Biking-focused classes (Strategies for Urban Livability)
* What could be improved?
  • Separate Danish language and culture classes
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? It is notoriously difficult to get to know Danes as friends so don't stress out about not knowing many locals well.

Reasons For Studying Abroad

To help future students find programs attended by like-minded individuals, please choose the profile that most closely represents you.
The Academic or Linguist
You went abroad with specific academic goals in mind; the program credentials and rigor of your coursework abroad were very important to you. You had a great time abroad, but never lost sight of your studies and (if applicable) were diligent with your foreign language study. Good for you!