An Awesome Experience, But I'm Ready to go Home May 02, 2022

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Overall, the academics at DIS are interesting and fun. There are tons of topics to choose from that I found were not offered at my university back home. For example, I got to take Cyberpsychology as my Core Course and travel to Amsterdam with my class--one of my favorite experiences to date! The professors are from all over the world and bring a lot of experience to the table. However, some of my professors were...less than ideal. At times there were frustrating cultural differences that made class difficult, like professors not understanding how typical American students have been taught to write, read, or ask questions. Sometimes these conflicts were resolved with a quick conversation, but other times they seemed to come up repeatedly over the semester. Other than that, I had an exciting and interesting experience that exposed me to many different world views.

On-site administration of your program

I think DIS did a pretty decent job on housing and finding matches for most Homestay students. Of course, it's not always a perfect match--I had a few friends who had to move out because of conflicts with their hosts. In my own experience, the Housing Admin was quick to respond to my questions and matched me well. However, homestay is NOT for everyone--keep in mind that you will be living with another family, in their personal space. If you enjoy independent living and doing things on your own schedule, I would not recommend a homestay.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

My hosts were generous, honest, and did their best to welcome me and my roommate into their home. There were definitely a few occurrences of culture shock and difference, but that's to be expected.

I had plenty of food! My hosts were amazing at keeping groceries stocked well and asking my roommate and me if we wanted them to get something specific. I generally bought my own snacks and other things (drinks, chocolate, etc).

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I feel like I've learned a lot about the Danish people and Danish culture, especially while living in a homestay. I've also been able to share American culture with them. Just the other day I made french toast and bacon for everyone for breakfast, and they enjoyed getting to try a staple favorite from back home!

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I did not have to use the healthcare system while I was here (luckily) but I was able to get Covid tested regularly and efficiently.

Copenhagen is a relatively safe city within a very safe country! I never felt in danger or uncomfortable. That being said, take precautions wherever you travel and be aware of your surroundings.

This was an awesome experience that I will remember forever. No program is perfect, but that's life.

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

I was able to live relatively easily on a student's budget. There are lots of DIS student discounts in and around the city (mostly food and coffee). However, Denmark is an infamously expensive country. Be aware of this when planning your expenses and research how much you might need for your stay.

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

Many students take a Danish language course or are required to, but I did not (schedule conflicts). Also, almost every Dane speaks English, so I didn't have to learn Danish to get by.

Select all that apply

• Host Family

Select all that apply

• Americans
• Host Family

Select all that apply

• Americans

• Interesting Classes
• Integrated Travel
• Culture

• Housing Matches
• Activities and Day-to-Day Programs
• Hiring of Faculty

The Outright Urbanite