Copenhangin' Out Past Review

By (PSYCHOLOGY., Brandeis University) - abroad from 08/17/2014 to 12/14/2014 with

DIS Copenhagen: Semester

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Definitely worthwhile; I learned more about adjusting to different cultures/lifestyles (truly different from just visiting)

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 6 months+

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

positive and negative aspects of a cultural difference in teaching style

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Easy access to DIS buildings, but less interaction with other students in the kollegium than expected

* Food:

The stipend was useful. Quality of restaurants never disappoints, but prices may not always be affordable for college students.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Not as much as I would have liked

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

Finances

* 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)

Traveling to other countries was the most expensive, but just staying in Copenhagen was manageable.

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $100
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Save money, but don't miss out on experiences because of it.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
How much did the program encourage you to use the language?

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

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? None
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Beginner
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? Never took Danish language before
How many hours per day did you use the language?
Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? Do not be shy! Practice speaking in Danish to the native people. They are always friendly to people who make the extra effort to learn about their language/culture

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • Americans
  • International Students
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with?

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • the city (location)
  • how organized it was
  • group activities
* What could be improved?
  • courses
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? one semester is not that long visit more touristy areas in the beginning before you get used to it

Reasons For Studying Abroad

To help future students find programs attended by like-minded individuals, please choose the profile that most closely represents you.
The Academic or Linguist
You went abroad with specific academic goals in mind; the program credentials and rigor of your coursework abroad were very important to you. You had a great time abroad, but never lost sight of your studies and (if applicable) were diligent with your foreign language study. Good for you!