Copen(heaven) Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

None of my DIS classes were particularly rigorous, although my core course (Game Development) was challenging due to its technical nature. We were the first students in the new Game Development course, and it was a great class, and I can imagine it will only improve with time. Danish Language & Culture (required by Wellesley) is more focused on the cultural aspects of Denmark, and felt pretty redundant with my cultural experience in my homestay. However, it's a great resource for students living with other Americans. My professors were all fantastic. DIS grades much easier than Wellesley as well!

On-site administration of your program

DIS administration had it's ups and downs -- I had some issues with the office losing a bunch of my paperwork, including transcripts several times during my registration, and I was unhappy with information being lost and not communicated during the host matching process. However, when in Denmark, DIS did a fantastic job of helping us all get our residency permits and paperwork filled out, which was a huge help. DIS study tours and optional trips were also fantastically run.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I was placed in my second choice housing, a homestay, and I did not have a very positive experience. I can't speak for all homestays because many of my friends had incredible experiences with their host families, but mine was challenging. I was placed in a smoking household despite having requested a non-smoking family (due to health reasons). We never really connected like some other host families seemed to. I was also very far out of the city, and required a 50 minute commute to and from Copenhagen which made social interactions and visiting friends difficult. I did feel that my homestay helped me experience and immerse myself Danish culture much more than any other housing option would have, and for that reason I would recommend it, especially after hearing so many positive stories from my friends in other homestays. However, I was not satisfied with my individual experience as it was.

Danish cuisine is fantastic, and my host family provided all my meals, which was great. There is tons of variety in Copenhagen, however it is on the pricey side. On DIS trips and study tours, group meals are provided by DIS, and are well organized and great quality. I was very satisfied with the food.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I felt very integrated with the local Danish culture, which I think is due in a large part to my homestay. I got to live essentially as a local Danish family would, and I had plenty of opportunities to learn and immerse myself in the local culture. My friends who stayed with other American students in DRCs did not feel that they had this same experience, so I feel that housing plays a huge role in this.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

The Danish healthcare system is fantastic. Once you get your CPR number (a few weeks into the semester) you get assigned a local English-speaking doctor who can help you with medical issues/prescription renewals, etc. I found it was easy and cheap. I cannot speak for DIS's healthcare resources because I did not use them, but they were very helpful in helping us register for our residency paperwork and CPR card. My host sister did give me lice, which was annoying, and there aren't many effective resources to get rid of it, but I assume this won't be a problem for many.

Copenhagen is extremely safe, as well as the public transportation. Some students had issues with bike theft, but other than that no violent crimes.

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

This definitely depends on lifestyle choices while abroad, I had some friends who spent a ton of money, and some who were able to live frugally. Being in a homestay helps bring down food costs, since meals are provided by your host family, and you can pack lunches.

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

Wellesley requires registration in the Danish Language and Culture class, which I recommend everybody takes anyway. Knowing some Danish helps Copenhagen feel more comfortable, but don't expect to be able to hold any sort of conversation after taking the class :)

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• Host Family

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• Host Family

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• Americans

• Game Development core course
• Study Tours
• Copenhagen as a city!

• Homestay host matching
• Orientation process
• More focus on Danish language

The Academic or Linguist