Erasmus Experience in Copenhagen, Denmark by Olivia

Source

Why did you choose to go to Copenhagen, Denmark?

Copenhagen offered me the opportunity to study in a country with a culture completely different to my own. I wanted to attend school in a country where I could be immersed in a different language, but still be around people who I would be able to communicate with in English. The city itself looked beautiful in all of the pictures I saw, and the University of Copenhagen was well-regarded academically.

How long is the scholarship? How much money do you receive to help you with living costs?

I am in Copenhagen for around 5 months!

What is the student lifestyle like in Copenhagen?

There is a very laid-back atmosphere in Copenhagen. The school system is very different to what I am used to, but in a very good way. Most courses don't require attendance, and students just write one exam or essay at the end of the term. There are courses that are structured differently, but this is what I have experienced studying humanities and social science. There are various campus bars and cafes that are always busy and fun. The nightlife is also incredible.

Would you recommend the city and the University of Copenhagen to other students?

I would definitely recommend the city (whether you're a student or just a traveller) and I would absolutely recommend the university to students. Copenhagen is the most beautiful city I have ever been to, and the atmosphere makes it that much better. It is incredibly rich in history, entertainment, and culture. The university, spread out throughout Copenhagen, is incredibly beautiful and welcoming and, from my experience, the professors have been wonderful and the teaching style has been a very nice change from what I have previously experienced.

What is the food like?

There are a lot of different kinds of food. Pastries are incredible in Copenhagen, and there are a variety of traditional Danish foods that are good and interesting (and worth the try). That being said, it is really easy to find food from all around the world, and there is something for everyone.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Copenhagen?

I found accommodation through a family friend who lives in Copenhagen.

How much does it cost to live in Copenhagen?

Copenhagen is not a cheap city. This is one of the downsides of living here. Planning out a weekly or monthly budget and learning tricks (such as which grocery stores to go to) is very helpful. Although it is fairly expensive, I have found that it isn't too hard to stick to a budget.

Is the language easy to get to grips with? Are there language courses available at the University?

Danish seems (at least to me) to be quite a complicated language. There are so many words that I can't even imagine how to pronounce. But everyone speaks perfect English. If someone starts speaking to you in Danish, all you have to do is say "I'm sorry I only speak English" and then they will effortlessly change to English. Language has not been a problem at all. The university does offer language courses, but I did not take any but I have heard that they are quite good!

What's the easiest or most economical way to travel to Copenhagen from your city?

I had to fly to Copenahgen.

Where would you recommend to go on a night out in Copenhagen?

There are so many options! My favourite bars are Francis Pony and the Australian Bar, both of which are near the main walking street in Copenhagen. There are dozens of options, whether you want a nightclub, a bar, or just a casual cocktail lounge. There are also a lot of music venues, jazz clubs, and other entertaining places.

Source

And for eating? Can you recommend some good restaurants in Copenhagen?

I haven't actually been to many restaurants in Copenhagen. There is one in the Meatpacking district called Mother which I would definitely recommend. All of the restaurants in that area are really cool.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

All of the palaces. Frederiksberg, Christiansborg, Rosenborg, Amelienborg... They are architecturally incredible, and on a nice day you could walk around all of them. I also love Kastellet, which is an old military fortress. It is located right by the famous little mermaid statue. Nyhavn and Christianshavn canals are beautiful and really nice places to hang out with friends. Christiania is something that every tourist in Copenhagen should see. It is a great place to just walk through. There are also a lot of cool museums. My favourite is the National Museum. And a short train ride away from Copenhagen are various castles and museums. And of course there is the amusement park Tivoli Gardens.

Source

Is there any other advice that you could give to students going to Copenhagen in the future?

Be open-minded. Being from North America I really wasn't sure what I was getting into, and at first I was very scared that I wouldn't make friends or be able to adapt to the Danish culture. When I decided to just embrace Copenhagen and everything it had to offer I really started to enjoy myself. Also take advantage of the cultural experiences. Go to museums and palaces and really immerse yourself in the Danish way of life. There is a reason they are the happiest people in the world!