DIS: Live like the Danes do Past Review
By Emily S (PSYCHOLOGY., Providence College) for
DIS Copenhagen: Semester
Academically, it was a great experience, it wasn't really a 'break' from school like some other programs though. You really are challenged, but in a good way that makes you think in different ways and on different levels. Socially, I met some really great people, maybe not friends for life, but we got along and had some really fun times in Copenhagen.
Personal Information
| How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | 0-2 weeks |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
similar work load as Providence College classes require |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
All resources were located in one building so easy access to housing and student services. Interns working there were very helpful and knowledgeable, issues were always sorted out quickly. |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
I lived pretty far out of the city (45 minute commute total) but I always felt safe walking back even at very late hours after having gone out at night. Also, my host family was very cool with me doing that as they have kids my age too. The commute was long, but that just meant I had to plan ahead for getting to class (get up a little earlier) and going out at night. I probably missed out on some events in Copenhagen by living far away, but I would not change the experience because my living situation with my host family was so perfect. The fact that my host-parents were very chill, friendly, fun, and laid-back people definitely made my experience that much better. |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| * Safety: |
Denmark is the safest place in the world. I never once felt like I was in an uncomfortable or unsafe situation, even in their red light district I felt safe. I left my purse at a burger place one night, then went back the next morning and they had it behind the counter waiting for me. Everything was inside still, even cash and credit cards and phones. SO safe here. |
| If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? |
Yes
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Finances
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* 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) |
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| Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? | There is a 25% tax on everything, so food and especially beer is way more expensive than I anticipated. Also, it costs $2 for a stamp. |
Language
| If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition? |
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Other Program Information
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* Where did you live?
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* Who did you live with?
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* Who did you take classes with?
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A Look Back
| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | If you can withstand the cold for a while and are interested in seeing what Scandinavian culture is like, and enjoy drinking beer, come to Copenhagen. Such a great culture here, somewhat alternative, but if you have a fun personality than this is the place for you. I think anyone with an open-mind could enjoy themselves here. |
