We talked to Oluwaseun who studies a Master’s degree in Geology-Geoscience at University of Copenhagen‌ What was the study start like in Denmark? The study start was very smooth as the university helped a lot in easing us into life in Denmark. The welcome program organized for new international students by the Faculty of Science was really important in this regard as I met the bulk of my present friends during that program. On the academic side of things, the teachers were friendly and the interactive classroom environment meant I could
Why did you choose a Danish university for your studies?
participate more in class.
I chose a Danish university because the universities in Denmark are highly ranked, especially, the University of Copenhagen,
What was the hardest and best thing about study start at your Danish university?
where I study. Furthermore, the tales of the
The hardest thing about study start for me in
laid back learning environment was a huge
Denmark was understanding the Danish
factor.
language during side conversations in the
How long have you been studying in Denmark? And how long are you planning to study here?
break periods between classes and also with my classmates. Also, it took some time to get used to having the freedom to take the
I’ve been studying in Denmark now for a year
initiative with my learning as this was not the
and since my program is for 2 years, I will be
case in my home country.
studying here for another year.
The best part about study start was actually getting to experience the Danish way of
education. What I mean by that is the very informal relationship between student and teacher here in Denmark. Being able to relate with the teachers without all the formality I was used to was very good, as I definitely was able to learn more and get better feedback about the courses.
How was the study start in Denmark different, if at all, from what you imagined it would be like? The study start was not a lot different from my expectations, but I think I did not fully appreciate the need to try to learn some Danish until I started studying here. Since I started studying Danish, it has been a lot easier communication wise. Also, I was
Are you looking forward to starting studies again? For me, my second year will be spend doing research for my thesis, so that means that I get to do some data collection by myself and lots of laboratory work. Therefore, I am
definitely not prepared for having to go to class early in the morning in the rain, during winter. It took some time getting used to going out regardless of the rain, especially in the morning.
definitely looking forward to starting studies again.
What were your expectations for your studies in Denmark?
Do you have some good advice or observations for other international students about school-start in Denmark? For new international students coming to
My expectations for my studies in Denmark
Denmark, I will advise them to get in contact
were really high, and it has been even more
with fellow students in their university prior to
than I expected. As I study geology, I really
getting here, as the information they get
hoped to get the opportunity to go on field
before arrival is very important to providing
trips and experience the practical aspect of
them a soft landing. Also, they should come
my field, and this I have had the opportunity
well prepared for the Danish weather as it can
to do while studying in Denmark, as I have
be quite erratic. It is a very good idea to arrive
been on several field trips in Denmark,
well before their studies start so they can take
Germany and USA.
care of practical matters like accommodation and CPR registration and attend the welcome orientation week organized by the
universities. This way, they will be able to make friends with their fellow students and have time to explore the city before academic
Confused about study start in Denmark? Here’s a recap of Oluwaseun’s experiences:
Learning a bit Danish before studying here is going to make it easier.
It can take some time getting used to the Danish weather and making your way to school through it...
Sort out practical stuff before heading for Denmark! Find accommodations, get CPR registered etc.
Get in contact with fellow students before study start to ease the arrival.
Attend the welcome orientation week organized by the universities!
commitments take over.
Thanks for sharing your insights and experiences Oluwaseun! Happy studies!