Danmark: The Happiest Place on Earth, and Here's Why Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The workload was probably greater than other study abroad programs of similar nature, but I learned a lot and enjoyed all of my classes. The teaching method was familiar, mostly lecture and then student projects near the end of the semester with 2 or 3 tests mixed in.

On-site administration of your program

The administration was amazing. They were very helpful and accommodating. The administration consisted of both Danes and Americans so knowledge about Denmark and American higher education was well provided. The size was pretty large, almost 1000 students. It didn't fell like that many thought because all the students were spread out across Copenhagen and encouraged to interact with Danes, not Americans.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I lived with a host family which was a great and rewarding decision. The family treated as one of the gang and I often stayed in during the weekends to enjoy handball games and movies with my siblings and parents. I lived about a half hour outside Copenhagen, so I needed to travel to get to class but it meant I didn't have to live in the middle of the city. I was able to go on 10k runs around the nearby lake with a lovely trail and a beautiful castle. My host family provided everything including a bike that I could take to the station. The neighborhood was quiet and safe. Copenhagen has a great night life with many clubs and bars. Or you can go to a local coffee shop and just by hygge with some friends.

Quality of food is fantastic. Price and quantity will make you cringe. The food in Denmark is some of the highest quality I have every eaten. All dishes are made fresh with a variety of ingredients. If you are buying meals everyday, however, be prepared to come home broke. My advice is to live with a host family or have a "visiting" family, that way they will take you out to dinner or make you delicious meals at home, all for free.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Best field trips of my life. DIS took me to Berlin and Poland to look at medical policy. Also I took one of their short courses and went to Russia, where we visited St. Petersburg and Moscow with the Danish Queen's Russian translator, Jon, as our guide. Be prepared to see lots of Danish culture, especially during Christmas time.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

No problems. The program was well run and all safety concerns were thought of in advance. Total health coverage was provided for, Denmark has one of the best health systems in the world.

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

Select all that apply

• Dorm
• Apartment
• Host Family

Select all that apply

• Host Family

• The great courses provided
• My host family
• The Danes, great group of people

• Cheaper food options or more money provided to those not with host families
• Work out facilities, maybe a deal with a fitness center so that the cost isn't so high