Denmark – Chloe
Student: Chloe
Course: Bachelor of Commerce/Bachelor of Communication (Public Relations)
Program: Trimester Exchange T2 2023
Describe the city you were living in: the landscape, the culture, the weather etc.
I had the incredible opportunity to study abroad in Copenhagen during the second semester of 2023, and it has become one of my favourite places in the world. Living overseas in Denmark for six months was something I never imagined, but now I wholeheartedly recommend it. Copenhagen is a breathtaking city adorned with enchanting parks that offer a peaceful retreat from the hustle of daily life.
In the summer, students often choose parks over the library for picnics and study dates, taking advantage of the serene atmosphere. A unique aspect of Copenhagen is the widespread use of bicycles; nearly everyone opts for biking, regardless of the weather, creating a distinctive and eco-friendly urban environment. For non-bikers like myself, the public transport system is exceptional, though it comes at a slightly higher cost. The metro (trains) arrives every two minutes, and buses are easily accessible from all corners of the city.
Don't let the chilly winter weather deter you from this location, as the snow transforms the experience into something magical and unforgettable. Furthermore, the locals are exceedingly friendly and proficient in English, making it a welcoming and accessible destination for international visitors.
How did you spend your weekends?
Many weekends were dedicated to exploring various European countries. Destinations included the Netherlands, Italy, Spain, Iceland, Germany, and more. However, it's important to note that not everyone travels on weekends. Some weekends were spent right in Copenhagen, enjoying time with friends. Copenhagen has a great, safe nightlife with a large assortment of bars for everyone, including "The Australian Bar." Additionally, Copenhagen features numerous markets throughout the year on weekends, such as farmers markets, vintage markets, and Christmas markets, providing a variety of experiences depending on the season.
What's your one piece of advice for a student who is preparing to study abroad? How should they prepare?
Embarking on a study abroad journey is an unparalleled experience, but it requires considerable time and preparation. I initiated the process nearly 12 months ahead, engaging in numerous meetings with the Deakin Abroad Team to identify universities aligning with the experiences I sought during my time abroad. Simultaneously, meetings with Student Central were essential to arrange my academic units for Copenhagen. The more questions you ask earlier, the better equipped you'll be.
Given Copenhagen's status as a relatively expensive city, financial preparedness is crucial. Individuals approach the experience with varying budgets, and some even secure employment at tourist bars to manage their expenses.
What is the one big thing you will always remember from your experience? Or one big lesson that you learnt?
Participating in a study abroad program is not a common choice for everyone. This unique experience has played a pivotal role in my personal growth and broadened my understanding of diverse cultural lifestyles. I will never forget the relationships I made with the other abroad students living in my student accommodation. The dormitory lifestyle proved to be incredibly enjoyable; my neighbours evolved into my closest friends. We shared moments of cooking, cleaning, hanging out, and studying together. This adventure has taught me the value of saying yes more often in life and actively pursuing opportunities.