FOCUS Student Magazine - Survival Guide by FOCUS Student Magazine

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THIS ISSUE HAS BEEN BROUGHT TO YOU BY STAFF EXECUTIVE EDITOR SUB-EDITOR CREATIVE DIRECTOR SALES MANAGER MARKETING MANAGER CHAIRMAN

CONTRIBUTORS Alexander Moroz Cristina Maria Alexander Moroz Aleksandra Abratańska Sara Præst Edvard Lucius Tramsen

CREATIVE TEAM

WRITERS TEAM

Alexander Moroz Olga Mangurova Tatiana Coelho de Oliveira Ilva Indrikova Plamena Somova Odette Charles El-Hayek

Cristina Maria Aela Nikolova Alexandra Munteanu

MARKETING TEAM

SALES TEAM

Sara Præst Cristina Maria Sonata Stačkūnaitė

Ieva Ozolina Wojciech Żmijski Loredana Musat Ileana Cocos Janis Zirnitis Valeria Solonari Inge Lynggaard Hansen Iwan Baan Per Tøffner Knudsen Roland Halbe Kiril Proykov Bettina Vendelbo

SPECIAL THANKS Mette Klarskov Hebel Annette Hansen Hindkjær Anders Stokholm Jessen

Aleksandra Abratańska

focusstudentmagazine@gmail.com

COVER ARTIST

Tatiana Coelho de Oliveira

4 6 9 12 14 17 20 22 23 24 26 28 31 35 36 37 38 42 44 46 50 54 56 58 60 62 64 66 68 72 74 76 86 88

FOCUS STUDENT MAGAZINE – The most important thing you’ll ever learn VELKOMMEN TO THE KINGDOM OF VIKINGS – Learn more about Denmark’s history 86 FACTS AND FICTION BUSTED – All you need to know about the sweetest of the Vikings GET YOUR DANISH ON WITH LÆRDANSK! - Danish can be easy and fun! 10 TIPS ON HOW TO STEP UP YOUR DANISH WITH @SPEAKDANISH – Tips and tricks from the experts 10 TIPS ON HOW TO AVOID FINES – We warned you! SURVIVING THE DANISH REGISTRATION PROCESS – Surviving is the right word THE DANISH HEALTHCARE SYSTEM - It’s always helpful to know WHAT ON EARTH IS SU? – Seriously, what is that? BEST APPS TO INSTALL NOW – And we mean #rightthisverymoment BUYING A BIKE – Your bike will become your treasure HERNING INSIDER – Get to know little Herning HERNING MAP - BEST PLACES TO CHECK OUT - Herning can be actually very interesting THE FRIDAY BAR – A great stop on your way to the weekend 26 THE PARTY STOPS – Herning’s most important attractions TRADITIONAL DISHES - For the cooking inclined DANISH FAMILY DINNER – Your own Danish family! WHERE TO FIND YOUR ‘HOME’ IN DENMARK - It can be easier than you think! GENBRUG - One shop to rule them all HEART – HERNING’S MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART – Your weekend is booked! KONTRAST - The best place to spend your free time BIRK CAMPUS – WHERE, WHAT, WHY? – What to expect from the little campus with a big heart THE DANISH WAY: PROBLEM BASED LEARNING – Or why no one is telling you what to do THE DANISH GRADING METHOD – With added commentary STUDENT RIGHTS – Sure, you have the right to party but that’s not all THE MENTOR PROGRAM – How to get a mentor THE ASIAN EXPERIENCE - How to go to China & Vietnam with VIA Talent INTERNSHIPS – Get a head start on your work placement CALENDAR OF PUBLIC FREE DAYS – This is why that random Thursday is free USEFUL CONTACTS AT VIA – Who you gonna call? Ghostbusters! And most likely Anne Louise NIGHT ACCESS TO VIA DESIGN – You’ll need this, don’t worry TRAVELOGUE DENMARK – Cars, buses, trains – all you need to know in order to get around Denmark 5 COOL PLACES TO SEE IN DENMARK – Wonderlust COUCH POTATO OR PARTY ANIMAL? – Find out your type with your classic magazine quiz

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62 - THE MENTOR PROGRAM

28 - HERNING INSIDER

66 - INTERNSHIPS

44 - GENBRUG

64 - THE ASIAN EXPERIENCE

58 - THE DANISH GRADING METHOD

Text by Cristina Maria

ello, dear reader! We hope youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re sitting comfortably, sipping some coffee and getting ready to find out more about what exactly you signed up to when you bought that ticket to Denmark. FOCUS Student Magazine, in association with Herning Kommune and VIA Design, happily welcomes you to Herning, wishes you a pleasant read and hopes to provide you with every bit of information youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll need to navigate beautiful Denmark. Read on!

Design students, to articles about Danish customs. How do I join FOCUS Student Magazine? We pretend to hear you ask. Well, the magazine is organized into five sub-teams: Writers, Proofreaders, Creatives, Sales and Marketing. If you love putting your thoughts on paper in the shape of words, informing people about important changes, covering events around Herning or simply want to have an outlet for sharing your talent, Writers are for you. Grammar Nazis? Off you go, to the proofreading corner. Creatives range from sketchbook lovers to the wildest graffiti fans with a bit of oil painters in between. Computer geek? Illustrators are more than welcome, they are vital. As part of the creative team, you can be tasked with either designing the graphics for articles or making the magazine layout. Stick around for long enough, and you might even get the cover.

We are a team of volunteers, all students based in Herning, who have decided that this city needs a quality piece of journalism that aims to be both entertaining and challenging. FOCUS Student Magazine was launched in 2012 as nothing more than a few pages strung together with a lot of wishful thinking, but it already showed promise. We are an internationally diverse crew, with different ages and interests, therefore the articles we publish, the art we feature as well as the general design of the magazine is everchanging in order to adapt to everything that needs to be covered. Therefore, if you happen to open a FOCUS Student Magazine issue, you can look forward to anything, from the graduation collections of VIA

Sales is a tough job but those of you who are blessed with flair and love to chat up to people should have no trouble here. Business students must love it â&#x20AC;&#x201C; it gives them an opportunity to visit businesses around 6

Herning, practice their pitch skills, expand their network and gain some much needed experience. Feeling a bit shy? There’s no better way to get over it than challenging yourself.

about the epic parties that FOCUS Student Magazine throws for each of their launches. If any of these teams caught your eye, even if more than one did, you can contact us using one of the email addressed in the bubble or on Facebook – we’re always on. Just send your enquiry and we’ll set up a meeting to get to know you better. No experience needed but do bring lots of excitement and new ideas!

Marketing is the team that deals with keeping the magazine alive. Social media (don’t forget to follow us on Instagram!), promotional materials and event planning are some of the activities you can be a part of if you choose to join. Also, let’s not forget

You can always contact our board members!

Aleksandra

Sales 235971@via.dk

Sara

Cristina

Marketing 237498@via.dk

Writers 207208@via.dk

and by the way ...

Alexander

Editor/ Creative 236843@via.dk

We are looking for contributors! FOCUS Student Magazine is looking for new members! We are looking for people to join Sales, Marketing and Writing teams If you are interested contact us via email or Facebook FOCUSSTUDENTMAGAZINE@GMAIL.COM 7

“Velkommen” To the Kingdom of Vikings

Text by Alexandra Munteanu

Denmark is one of the oldest declared countries in Europe with an interesting and lively history. Take a look at this brief timeline and refresh your memory if you’ve already checked it out, or find some new insight on Denmark!

Ancient Denmark

Denmark in the Middle Ages

A very long time ago, after the last Ice Age which took place more than 12 000 years ago, the first humans arrived on the lands of modern-day Denmark. The first Danes’ occupations were hunting and fishing, as it was usual for people who lived during the Stone Age. They became farmers around 4000 BC. After bronze was introduced around 1800 BC, Danes became expert craftsmen. They were very skillful at working with iron around 500 BC. This allowed for a flourishing trade with the Romans, and after the fall of the Roman Empire, with Byzantine merchants. An interesting fact is that Danes used Runes for inscriptions around 200 AD.

In the Middle Ages, Denmark expanded and developed, thus growing steadily richer. The 1300s were dark times for Denmark as well as for Europe, around 1/3 of the population died of the Black Death. During the Middle Ages, there were several unifications and afterwards Denmark was divided along with Norway and Sweden.

Brief History (1500 – 1900) For the following 400 years, Denmark remained a monarchy, which underwent several rebellions and civil wars, as well as other wars with Sweden (the Great Northern War, 1709-1720) and Britain (1805). The Reformation took place between 15001600, Denmark thus transitioned from Roman Catholicism to Lutheranism. Despite all the social turmoil and disasters, the Danish economy grew fast in the 19th century due to farming, engineering and shipbuilding, as well as the development of the sugar and beet industries.

Vikings in Denmark

In the 800s-900s, Denmark was split into different kingdoms, which got united in the 10th century. Danish ancestors – the Vikings – raided and conquered other parts of Europe, such as a part of England (that they named Danelaw) and Norway. Christianity was introduced around 960 when King Harald Bluetooth became a Christian, and the people followed his lead. 8

Denmark in the 20th century During the First World War Denmark remained neutral. A more democratic Constitution was adopted in 1915 and women received the right to vote. Around the 1930s, the 1930s economic depression affected Denmark unemployment rose to 32%. In order to tackle this and create a welfare state, more laws were introduced. In 1939, when the Second World War began, Denmark stayed neutral, but it was occupied by Germans in 1940. However, the Danish resistance grew stronger and the Germans were abated in 1943. In 1949, Denmark joined NATO and it has been a member of the EU since 1973.

Denmark Today Today Denmark is considered a prosperous European country, with a high standard of living. It is a democratic monarchy under Queen Margrethe II, with the legislative and executive powers put in motion by The Government and The Danish Parliament (Folketinget).

SOURCES: www.localhistories.org www.dr.dk en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Constitution_of_Denmark freedomhouse.org/report/ freedom-world/2013/denmark www.visitdenmark.com

Dance, Song anD LoungemuSic Check out husetno7.dk and

Welcome to your local cultural venue and cafĂŠ

/husetno7

n o i t c i f d n Facts a le p o e p h s i n a D

a Text by Aela Nikolov Mangurova ga Ol Illustrations by

b us te d P

robably most of you have experienced stereotyping – assuming cultural facts for a certain country without even setting a foot on its grounds – Italians have a flaming temperament, German people are punctual to the second, Eastern Europeans wash their teeth with vodka and dance to weird music in tracksuits (which is ridiculous because no true Eastern European would waste alcohol just like that). You have probably heard controversial facts about Danish people – from sporting the gold medal for the “Happiest Nation in the World” to having the highest suicide rate in Europe. This article will give you an insight on the most common assumptions about Scandinavians, and bust myths circulating foreign countries since the beginning of time.

DANES ARE COLD AND RESERVED Let’s start with the most archaic stereotype of them all – Viking descendants are gloom, fierce giants with hearts of ice, conquering glaciers barefoot and defeating anyone who dares to step on their way with a silent, smouldering blue-eyed stare that makes you scream inside and run for your life. FALSE!

your manners and qualities. Do not expect to make small talk – Danes are straightforward when they do business, need help or information, and if you are not ready to do the same, don’t expect others to assume you need someone to lift up your heavy suitcase, open the door for you or come ask you how has your day been. Don’t be mistaken - this has nothing to do with bad upbringing, being rude or denying help to those in need. Danes are raised to highly respect other individuals, their own choices and equal rights. For example, some Danish women do not mind dragging their heavy suitcases and running billionkroner businesses on their own, and they refuse to rely on anybody’s help unless they specifically request it.

There are no glaciers in Denmark, you silly people. Joke aside, let’s make it clear once and for all. Danish people might seem reserved and insisting a lot on their personal space, but it is a matter or respecting each other’s privacy and way of life. That is why they will rarely judge you based on your appearance, preferences or nationality, but rather on 11

In short – if you need something, just ask for it, be respectful and, as your mom used to say, don’t forget the magic word. As wisdom has it – knock and it shall be opened, and you will actually be surprised how much genuine warmth, friendliness and acceptance you will find behind the door.

DANES RARELY SMILE FALSE, FALSE AND FALSE! The majority of Danes live up to the “happiest nation in the world” label by flashing a smile way too often than people in Eastern Europe are used to, for example. Shop assistants, waiters and administrative workers are actually hired based on their friendliness and people skills, which are the most important ones according to Danish HR departments. But again – a word of warning: smiling to someone in Denmark is not an invitation for approaching them or for small talk, and it doesn’t mean you are a special flower that makes the rare Danish sun raise up in the morning to pour its rays of gold upon. It is just equal to being polite, period.

DANISH LANGUAGE IS EXTREMELY HARD TO LEARN Okay, you got us with this one. To be honest, Danish is difficult to a certain extent when it comes to the pronunciation and getting used to hearing the separate words, because spoken Danish varies not only from region to region, but sometimes even from neighbourhood to neighbourhood! All in all, it might depend on your personal talent in picking up languages to start understanding it faster than others. If you take up learning seriously (which we advise you to do for countless reasons – finding better jobs, making more friends, integrating better into society, humming along songs on the radio, etc.) and make use of your awesome three years of FREE language lessons, you will find out that a lot of words are perfectly similar to their English equivalent, that the weird alphabet letters are not hard to read or pronounce at all, and the soft-spoken “R” makes Danish even capable of sounding almost as romantic as French (is it just me? Okay, maybe I went too far.) However, it is absolutely possible to be able to speak Danish even by the end of your 12

first year in the country! Golden advice: practice and socialise with Danes as much as possible, and you will be amazed by how fast you are making a progress.

DANES LIKE WEIRD FOOD To be more specific: Danes like healthy food. Their dark-as-the-night bread might not be for every taste, but its nutritional value is soaring up the sky. We will keep silent about the fact that Danes have the admittedly weird tendency to put pineapple or grapes in their green salads and continue with giving them credit for the large variety of delicious meat dishes, masterfully baked potatoes and last but, oh, so not least, mouthwatering pastry and desserts. Contrary to common foreign belief, Danish food is not dominated by fish but rather boasts a large spectrum of flavours for every taste, and is rich in fresh veggies and fruits. A healthy, diverse and balanced diet is a part of the Danish lifestyle, and you will most probably soon see yourself adopting it as part of your own.

DANES ONLY LIKE PEOPLE WHO WEAR BLACK EXPENSIVE CLOTHES Well, Denmark is known for style, minimalism and Scandinavian design, as well as supporting equality and unity. Simple, toned-down clothes (most often black, yes) are a symbol of modesty and a protest to “overdoing” your appearance with unnecessary, cheap accessories. Black is the new black, as it has been since the last century all over Europe, and not only Northern one – the trend actually caught on from France and has been associated with class and originality. This doesn’t mean, as I mentioned previously, that you will be judged by your appearance and you will have to give up your colours and personality in order to blend in. Nobody wants or expects that from you, and, if you choose not to give up your identity, you actually have higher chances of being noticed and admired in a positive way for feeling comfortable in your own skin. After all, this is what Danish style is all about – so be yourself, go out there and start enjoying your cultural adventure as soon as possible! 13

GET YOUR

DANISH ON WITH

LÆRDANSK! Text by Bettina Vendelbo Illustrations by Odette Charles El-Hayek

Lærdansk offers free Danish courses for international students in Herning Lærdansk is Denmark’s largest language center with 15 schools across Denmark. Our teachers deliver flexible, targeted and effective Danish training. Living in a foreign country with a new language and a different culture is not easy so the first step to improving your life and opportunities in Denmark is to learn the language. Learning Danish will also give you better job opportunities in Danish companies, and you’ll get a unique language skill to add to your resumé which is of great value when searching for a job.

oost your mood and learn a new language! Your course is called Arbejdsmarkedsrettet Dansk which means Work-oriented Danish. Our classes is a mix of face to face communication and modern online education. The course focuses on real-life situations. The training is based on your needs so that you can learn Danish as quickly as possible in relation to your everyday life, work and studies.

Arbejdsmarkedsrettet Dansk is divided into 5 packages with 50 lessons each for a total of 250 lessons. After 250 lessons, you can take a final examination. If you complete the course in 18 months or less, you will be entitled to additional 36 months of free Danish education, which continues on higher linguistic levels. The course is free for you who: •

The course is offered in day and evening classes at the school in Herning, but also in afternoon classes at VIA Campus. You’ll get more details about how to sign up for the VIA Campus classes at the Lærdansk presentation in the first week of September at VIA.

• • •

either resides in Denmark (residence permit) is a citizen of the EU working in Denmark (work permit) and has a civil registration number and is 18 years of age

You can register online at www.sprogcenterherning.dk 14

wenda, who has been attending classes since August 2015, says: “When I think back to the Danish classes I took, I do it with a smile. Learning a new language can be a challenge but it is also a lot of fun. Recognizing things from your own language that mean the same or maybe mean something completely different, the pronunciation, the words and grammar are all interesting but the most important thing is that you also learn about a country and its culture. Besides learning Danish, the classes were also about meeting new people, having fun with each other and getting to know each other's countries. Teachers are understanding, they always give a helping hand when needed and are interested in

you. Committing to Danish classes can be a struggle next to you own schoolwork but the teachers will always make the best out of it and I have never regretted going.” Nora, who has just finished a full semester of classes says: “Of course it was, most of the time, really hard to be in school for so long and keep up with Danish classes even when I did not feel like it, nonetheless when I look back I can truly say that it was worth it! It is a great feeling to understand what you are told in the supermarket and also answer them right. It might not sound like much, but it feels like an achievement.”

10 step up your tips on how to...

DANISH BY SPEAKDANISH

Text by Tereza Keprdová Illustrations by Carrie Andersen

Do you get a dry mouth when the cashier asks you, “Vil ha’ bonen med?” Do you have a panic attack when Danes begin a rowdy chorus of a birthday song? Maybe you’re new to Denmark. Or maybe you’ve been here for a while. No matter, it’s time to step up your Danish and get on with learning it! Speakdanish has 10 easy tips to help ease you into the language learning process.

he main idea behind the Speakdanish project is to create a pleasant language learning community through encouragement and positive energy. We promote an authentic learning experience by sharing struggles, tips, ideas and personal stories that all Danish beginners can relate to. The project started in August, 2015 and since then we have attracted over 900 followers.

The whole project is voluntary and our team consists of Danish language learners residing in Denmark as well as abroad. Furthermore, we collaborate with other Instagram users and repost their relevant posts. We have started to use our own hashtag (#speakdanish) and we encourage people who use it by giving positive feedback.

Know why you are doing it. “Wait, why am I learning Danish?” – Have a chat with yourself and break the language into smaller goals. Like learning to order a coffee at a café or knowing the difference between “skyr” and “ymer” in the grocery store. Knowing your motivation will take you far.

Listen to music in another language. Crank up some Danish tunes on Spotify while biking to school or washing up. Music helps with the natural rhythm of a language and pronounciation.

Cook up a storm. About to make dinner? Look up your recipe in Danish. The vocabulary is relatively simple – as a bonus, it will make shopping easier.

Label everything. Break out the post-its and label things you use on a daily basis. So every time you reach for the toilet paper – your brain will begin to think “toiletpapir” (we said label everything and we meant it).

Hang out with native speakers. Grab a Danish boyfriend / girlfriend, neighbour and get talking! Test out your new words and phrases with the benefit of instant feedback. Interacting in a new language is the key.

6 17

Play games with children. Because most children don’t speak English in Denmark, playing games with them is an excellent way to be exposed to the Danish language, not to mention culture. So learn a few words to help you along in yahtzee or chess. You may have a little fun too!

Change the language on your devices. Change those “Likes” to “Synes godt om” on Facebook for a week. Try calling your “mor” rather your “mother”. Resetting the language on your devices will help you learn new words immediately.

Learn to make mistakes. A lot of them! One of the most common barriers to a new language is the fear of making mistakes. Yes, it’s going to be rough in the beginning. You’re not going to have native-like fluency from the get go. Expect the first 6 months to be a lot of trial and error.

7 9

Memorize your first 50 words. Maybe you’ve heard the riddle “How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time!” It’s the same for languages. Identify your top 50 daily words, write them down and commit them to memory.

Learn the birthday song. Do you smile politely, hum a little, make up a few words that possibly sound Danish and join in at the end with a loud “MED KAGE TIL”? This is the ultimate challenge for you! Learn the Danish birthday song – and impress your fellow Danes. And look a little less mortified at parties.

Good luck with your language learning! Remember to follow @speakdanish on Instagram to see others wrestling with the language and pick up new learning tips

TIPS HOW TO AVOID FINES IN DENMARK Text by Wojciech Zmijski

The “farts” are coming...

he warm weather is still on and most of you are getting your bikes ready. Some of the students are biking in Herning, either to or from parties, to and from shops while others are using cars as their main way of getting around. In this article I will try to create a list of how much it will cost you if you break the law in Denmark, whether by car, bike or walking, since not even the pedestrians are immune to the law. However, I’m sure most of you have seen a little a bit of Denmark, but did you actually see a lot of police cars around? The answer is no… The police in Denmark are not very obvious but it is more than likely that they have seen YOU.

To start it a bit positively, the speeding tickets are simply called “Fart Bøde”, which is why it is quite important to be careful with your farts. Pretty often you will also see signs saying that you should “Watch your farts”. I’ll try to stop the fart jokes now. Before we start our 10 tips, it is important to mention that the fines add up to each other, meaning that if you commit multiple offenses at the same time you will be fined for each one of them. That is why it is not the best idea to bike with two people, without lights, while talking on the phone. Why? Let’s talk about that!

Using your cell phone can also cost you another 1000kr. Finally, if you violate the duty to give way to approaching traffic, it will cost you another 1000kr. Sometimes it’s just easier to wait a little longer than going on the late yellow light as a biker.

KEEP YOUR EYES OPEN FOR LEGAL CROSSING SPOTS!

Pedestrians can be fined with a ticket of up to 700kr for crossing the road on the red light or for crossing the road outside the places designed for crossing the road. That is why it is sometimes a good idea to just wait those two more minutes on the lights rather than paying this much money for no reason.

STRIKE ONE! IF YOU’VE RECEIVED A WARNING, DON’T LOOK FORWARD FOR THE SECOND!

TAKE PROPER CARE OF YOUR CAR AND SKIP THE FRIEND OF A FRIEND WHO SWEARS HE CAN CHANGE TIRES FOR A SIX-PACK OF BEER.

While talking about driving a car and all fines related to that, I’ll mention that since 2012 the minimum fine has been raised from 500kr to 1000kr. Lack of lights while driving can cost you 1000kr; you can also get charged 1000kr for each tire which is not in the best condition, so worst case scenario, bad tires can cost you up to 4000kr. You can also get fined if you forget to put the brake on while parking the car, but this is something you don’t see too often. Of course, if you are caught speeding, you will also get the minimum fine.

Sometimes you can just get a warning, for example if your bell is not working. Receiving a first warning means that it’s very unlikely for you to get a second one, especially if the police register your name. Then you can be sure that next time you’ll receive a fine of 500kr. So make sure to check your bell when you’re going for groceries.

DON’T BIKE WITHOUT LIGHTS, DON’T BIKE OVER PEDESTRIAN CROSSINGS, DON’T BIKE WITH A FRIEND...

The lowest fine for a cyclist is equal to 700kr. There are a couple of different offenses that are placed under this fine. Biking without lights during the light-up hours for example or cycling no-handed. You can also get fined if you bike over pedestrian crossings or bike on the sidewalks. Biking with two people on the bike is equal to 700kr, but this time it will be for both, if you bike with three people, then yes, all three of you will be charged 700kr each.

BEHAVE YOURSELF!

If you don’t follow the traffic signs or forget to fasten the seatbelt, it will cost you 1500kr. Talking on the phone while driving will also cost you another 1500kr. And 1500kr is also the fine for driving more than 20% over the speed limit.

TRY BIKING AGAIN?

The highest fine (except the speeding, which could add up to 5000kr) is equal to 2000kr and you can get fined with this amount of money, for example, if you cross the double line or the roundabout markers. Running on red lights is also equal to 2000kr.

TRY NOT TO BIKE AT ALL?

Bikers can also be fined with 1000kr, for example by biking on the red light or biking against the traffic direction. 20

PAY ATTENTION TO THE NUMBER OF ZONES YOU’RE CROSSING. AND GET SOME “MEMORY” AIDS.

If you forget to buy tickets and you get checked, it will cost you 750kr; also if you buy a ticket with the wrong number of zones, it will cost you another 750kr. This is why sometimes it’s a good idea to check twice where you have to travel and how many zones you have to cross.

GET A DISCOUNT!

As a student, with low income, you can apply for a discount when getting a fine from the police; the maximum discount you can get is equal to 50% of the fine. After the discount, the fine cannot be less than 500kr. Don’t forget that you have to apply for the discount by contacting the police station from which you received the fine!

KEEP SOME CASH ON HAND.

If you forget to renew your monthly ticket (within 24h) it will cost you 125kr, but only IF you renew your monthly ticket right away and you submit that to DSB within 14 days and then pay a fee of 125kr.

RESIDENCE CERTIFICATE

SURVIVING THE DANISH

The requirements vary a bit depending on your country of origin.

REGISTRATION

1. For EU students (including EEA and Swiss citizens):

PROCESS

EU students can stay up to 3 months without a residence certificate. However, the residence certificate is required to get a CPR-number and health card, so it’s recommended to get it sooner.

Text by Mette Klarskov Hebel Illustration by Alexander Moroz

Obtaining a residence certificate is possible by visiting the State Administration office in Aarhus. Thje address is Lyseng Allé 1, 8270 Højbjerg Check rejseplanen.dk for bus and train. YOU NEED TO BRING: • Letter of admission to your university in Denmark • Passport • Two colour photocopies of your original passport (photo has to be visible) • A photograph that fulfills the passport photo requirements • A completed “Application For EU- Residence” form (You can download the application form at: www. statsforvaltningen.dk/stats_resources/810. pdf)

To get started here in Denmark you need to make a few official registrations. Read below how you get a:

You will receive the residence certificate by mail after some processing time.

2. For non-EU students:

• RESIDENCE CERTIFICATE (issued by the State Administration) • CPR-NUMBER (issued by local Citizen Service / “Borgerservice” in Herning) • HEALTH CARD / YELLOW CARD (issued by local Citizen Service / “Borgerservice” in Herning)

You need to apply for/receive your visa and residence permit BEFORE your arrival.

3. Students from Nordic Countries: Residence certificate is not necessary.

HOW TO GET TO THE CITIZEN SERVICE IN HERNING?

CPR-NUMBER (PERSONAL REGISTRATION NUMBER)

Citizen Service is based on Torvet (the city square) in Herning.

Everyone planning to stay in Denmark for more than 3 months must register for a CPR number/personal registration number.

Address: Torvet 5, Entry B, 7400 Herning (You can check the most and least busy hours at: international.herning.dk/needhelp-from-citizen-service)

The registration is done by the local Citizen Service (“Borgerservice”), where you need to show up in person, and you need to bring your residence certificate (Except for Nordic Citizens). At the same time you will choose a doctor (GP) – Citizen Service provides a list to choose from.

Citizen Service Herning will be present at VIA Design and/or AU Herning (BTECH) in Birk to make registration for CPR number on site – after you have received your residence certificate from the State Administration. Date will be communicated!

HEALTH CARD/ YELLOW CARD When you have registered for a CPR number, you will receive the yellow health insurance card (“Sundhedskort”) by post. With this card you have access to free medical treatments, except for e.g. dentist and physiotherapy. The card states your name, address, CPR/ Personal Registration number and contact details of your family doctor / general practitioner. You need to bring the card to all visits to the doctor, hospitals and to the pharmacy when collecting prescription medication.

midt regionmidtjylland

SUNDHEDSKORT

Your doctor adress is exactly here

HERNING KOMMUNE Tlf. 11 11 11 11

Here is Your CPR Your name! adress and of course city!

THE DANISH healthcare system Text by Kiril Proykov Illustrations by Alexander Moroz

Everyone gets sick from time to time, sometimes it is so bad that we need to visit the doctor or call an ambulance, therefore it is quite important to know how the Danish healthcare system works.

THE PRIVATE DOCTOR:

There are no private dentists, for that reason one must find it by himself/herself. There are different health insurance that can cover some of the costs related with your dental issues (see “Important links”).

As a Danish resident, you are going to receive a “yellow card”, which is your health care card. On the yellow card you can see the address and phone number of your private doctor. Going to your private doctor is free, so do not hesitate to visit him or her whenever you feel the urge to do so. The medication prescribed by the doctor on the other side is not free, but usually it is not expensive.

The eye doctor (Optometrist) can check your vision for free, but if determined that a medication or glasses needs to be prescribed, they have to be paid privately. The health insurance can affect the prices related to eye issues (see “Important links”).

WHAT ELSE?

THE HOSPITAL:

There are other specialists and doctors that can be visited after your private doctor has recommended it. Sometimes the Danish healthcare system can seem a bit slow, but in case of emergency you would be in good hands.

Going to the hospital is free but before heading to the emergency make sure to call 112 or 1813. The number 112 is the emergency number and works for the police, the fire brigade and for calling an ambulance. The number 1813 is for sudden sickness or injury and it will connect you to a nurse or the medical department.

IMPORTANT LINKS: These are some links that might be helpful to you if you want to learn more about the Danish Health Care.

OTHER SPECIALISTS:

www.borger.dk – Public self-service; www.healthcaredenmark.dk – Danish healthcare website; www.sum.dk – Health ministry; www.sygeforsikring.dk – Insurance Denmark

Going to the dentist is not covered by the Danish healthcare system, therefore be ready to pay for the visit. 24

The $U grant

AS A FOREIGN STUDENT? In order to be able to receive SU, it is required of you to: • Be an EU or EEA citizen • Work 10-12 hours a week • Study at a Danish University for a full degree

Text by Alexandra Munteanu Illustrations by Olga Mangurova

In addition, you need to be granted equal status according to Danish or EU rules before applying for SU.

WHEN ARE YOU NOT ELIGIBLE FOR SU? You are not eligible to receive SU if you: • Are a non-EU or non EEA citizen • Do not work for 10-12 h / per week • Are an exchange student at a Danish University •

re you one of those who agree that everything is so expensive in Denmark compared to the prices we’re used to? Well, we think that as a student it’s good to know about SU and who is eligible for it, especially if you are looking for means to support yourself during your studies, so check the following text carefully:

STUDY PROGRESS REFORM AND SU REFORM

In November 2015, the Ministry of Science, Innovation and Higher Education adopted a new political agreement with regards to an education reform meant to speed up the study time. It influences considerably not only the student life, but also higher education institutions. This reform is called the Study Progress Reform and it results in a cut of 2.2 billion DKK for the SU system, which would sustain the government economic growth plan (source: University Post). It is said that this study reform will not have consequences for the SU grant. However, the SU Reform, another agreement recently adopted, influences the SU grant for those who already receive it. As a student in Denmark, you should be aware of what the Study Progress Reform and the SU Reform entail, as they are an ongoing process, so make sure to check the details!

WHAT IS SU? SU stands for Statens Uddannelsesstøtte, which could be translated as “State Educational Grant”. SU is public support for education, granted to Danish students over the age of 18 regardless of their social standing. It can be granted to foreign students as well, whether specific conditions are met. At present, the SU is 5.753kr (approximately EUR 750). The student grants and loans are administered by the Ministry of Science, Innovation and Higher Education (Ministeriet for Forskning, Innovation og Videregående Uddanelser).

HOW ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR SU

Best Apps to have when comming to...

Denmark! Text by Alexander Moroz

Do you have a smartphone? Well, it is quite unlikely that you don’t, or so I figured out. When arriving to a new country, your smartphone will be your first, last and best friend so it’s good to always have it somewhere near you. “But what should you have installed” you might ask! Besides Facebook, Instagram and all that nonsense, we have a small guide for you with the must-have apps for Denmark’s freshest faces!

Maps.me by my.com

Maps.me is a great maps app because it does not need internet connection! Just download the country that you want (Denmark might be a good idea) and hit the road, Jack! Maps.me gives you the possibility to make step-bystep directions to any location and make pins of interesting places. Also they are available for literally every smartphone and mobile operating system. Available for free for iOS, Android and Windows devices.

Data Widget by jerry jee

Have limited internet? Don’t know how much internet data is left? This app lets you know by push notifications how much of your free data plan has been wasted away on Snapchat and makes tracking your everyday usage much easier. This one is unfortunately for iOS users (Android has a lot of similar apps like Onavo data count that is actually free). Available on AppStore for $1.99 26

Rejseplanen by Rejseplanen A/S Thinking about the most convenient way of getting to different locations? Rejseplanen shows you city buses, trains and busses going between cities. The best and most accurate way of checking if you can sleep 10 more minutes and still make it to class.

Available for free for iOS, Android and Windows devices.

MobilePay by danskebank

By using this app you literally don’t need a wallet anymore! Just connect the app with your bank (it does not have to be Danskebank - double YAY!) and pay or make transfers using your phone whenever you want and wherever you are. The only problem might be setting up since it’s in Danish (at least I had it) so be prepared to use Google Translate or a trustworthy friend. Available for free for iOS, Android and Windows devices.

Google Translate by Google

This one is rather obvious but you SHOULD have it on your phone. You might ask why so let me be faster and answer that for you - phone version can save languages to offline so you don’t need internet connection and you can use the camera in your device to instantly translate images, signs and whatever you want on the go! Available for free for iOS, Windows and Android.

Just Eat by Just-eat.dk

This app is super useful if you are too lazy to cook or it’s raining cats and dogs (metaphorically speaking, Denmark is a magical place but not that kind of magic) and going to the shop is just not an option. Select what you want to eat, place, order and pay. Simple as that! And the best part is that you don’t have to leave your comfy couch! Available for free for iOS, Android and Windows devices. 27

BUYING YOUR PERFECT

Bike

tips on where to look for the perfect bike! Text by Alexandra Munteanu

Buying a bike is essential if you live in Denmark – bikers love them, the pedestrians love them, even car drivers respect bikers! Bikes are time-effective and comfortable, especially in this city where good places are situated so far from each other. No matter where you live or who you are, a bike is always a good idea! So here are some tips on where you could buy the bike you want…

irst, you must decide if you want a new bike or a second-hand one. There are perks to both: having a new bike means that you can choose whichever you like and they are more durable, but they are also quite expensive; whereas second-hand bikes are less expensive but might give you some troubles in the long run (chain slips and flat tires). Here are some suggestions on where to look for your bike:

expensive (they start around 1400kr), and you can choose something that you like for a friendly price. If, however, you would like something more professional you can check some of the following stores:

NEW BIKES

HENRIK SKOV BREDGADE 63 +45 97 12 22 49

CYKELCENTER HERNING BREDGADE 47 +45 97 12 11 14

There are many places in Herning where you can buy your bike. If you are not looking for something in particular, you can try the big supermarkets such as Bilka or Kvickly – here you can find some bikes that are not so

PER P CYKLER SNEJBJERG HOVEDGADE 19 +45 97 16 88 66 28

FREDHØJ CYKLER GL LANDEVEJ 157 +45 97 22 16 02

understanding the page, hit the ‘Translate this page’ button at the top of your browser and everything should go alright.

FRI BIKESHOP HERNING ENGDAHLSVEJ 10 +45 97 22 00 22

Remember, if you choose to buy a second-hand bike, don’t get discouraged if you cannot find it right away; the good offer you are looking for will appear, as many people are always changing their bikes.

LIND CYKEL SERVICE SVINGET 1 +45 97 21 48 10

SECOND-HAND BIKES

No matter where you choose your bike from, take good care of it – always lock your bike (you might think “It’s Denmark!” but they do get stolen sometimes), remember to oil the chain from time to time and use your lights when it is getting dark – there are many regulations concerning riding your bike and you should be aware of them – “I didn’t know!” will not work when it comes to fines. Flip through our Survival Guide to check out the “10 tips on how to avoid fines” if you want to know more. One last advice – signal your turns, drivers will appreciate the effort!

If you are looking to buy a second-hand bike, there are many possibilities, so don’t panic if you cannot find your perfect bike in the first week here. You can look on Facebook groups for sales and exchanges such as: TEKO Marketplace, AU-H Marketplace, Free your stuff Herning, Herning køb og salg, Buy & Sell, Ting til salg omkring Ikast & Herning and many others. You can also check out www.dba.dk, in the section Cykler – here you can apply filters for the type of bike you want, distance from Herning and price. If you have difficulties

Herning

Insider Text by Annet Muru & Loredana Musat Photos by Janis Zirnitis and Roland Halbe

ou just moved to Herning and the initial enthusiasm of discovering a new place, new people still lingers. It won’t take you long until you start talking with some of the older students, who will probably tell you how you will be stuck in this boring city where there’s absolutely nothing to do for the next couple of years. Do not freak out! They’re not entirely right!

sure you’ll discover it by yourself in no time! Now, if you’re a book lover, then you’ll probably visit the library as soon as you get your yellow card. Lucky for you, its location has just changed and it’s now in a brand new building on the main pedestrian street. The English books collection is not massive, but it will suffice; furthermore, they also have books in French, Russian and a few other languages so you can always practice your foreign languages skills. Living in the campus does not offer that many options for leisure activities, besides the occasional parties at the Student House, their gym and the pool room, unless of course, you count doing laundry as an exciting activity. No worries though, you’ll discover soon enough that fun will be at its best on a random Tuesday night, when your Birk neighbours decide to have a party. Maybe you weren’t necessarily invited, but we’re all students and you’re always welcome.

Fair enough, Herning is not that big and there are many other exciting places to be, but there’s actually more to it than meets the eye. We’re here to tell you about some of our favorite places and give you some fresh ideas and new alternatives, which come to prove that our little Herning is not so bad after all. If you’re not necessarily the adventurous type, and you prefer chilling over a drink or a bite, there are plenty of cafes and restaurants – most of them located on the walking street or close to it. It’s a great way to socialize with your new classmates, flatmates or neighbors and most of these places offer discounts for students! As for the nightlife, we’re pretty

These are some ideas for indoor endeavors, but Herning also offers some options for the nature lovers. The Geometrical Garden near 30

VIA Design is the perfect place to just wander around, think about life or why not have a picnic with your friends. It’s not really a maze, but every time I go there I get equally excited about not knowing where I will end up on the next turn. Next to the Geometrical Garden, you will find the Sculpture Park with 36 sculptures circled up – quite weird ones, but still worth a look.

weather conditions. Art can actually be found all over Birk Centerpark. In addition to some artsy landmarks scattered around, there are two art museums waiting for visitors! CarlHenning Pedersen & Else Alfelts Museum is the pair of eye-catching blue buildings next to VIA Design that exhibits over 4000 pieces created by the married couple. HEART – Herning Museum of Contemporary Art offers, as the name already suggests, brilliant contemporary art divided by genre. Different changing exhibitions of the work of international and Danish artists add great value to the permanent collection.

Most probably you have already noticed the huge black ‘thing’ in Birk Centerpark, with 60 meters in diameter known as Elia – that’s actually a piece of art. Or as Mr. Ivar Hansen, Speaker of the Danish Parliament has said: “Elia is exactly what we make of it. Art reaches out to the diversity of the individual.” What you might not know about it, is that its pillars can function as lightning attractors. At random intervals – nobody knows exactly when a gigantic 8 meters high gas flame arises from the deep of the shaft and burns for 30 seconds. It’s definitely worth it to be in the right place at the right time to see it. But we have to emphasize that it is said to be extremely dangerous to be on or near the sculpture during thundery

While wandering around Herning, there are a few places you should definitely check out in the open. Most of you have probably been to the Messecenter and its surroundings, but what you might have missed is something halfway to it. Right next to Kaj Zartows Vej lies the highest peak of Herning – Knudmosebjerget. I mean, don’t have any high expectations towards it, we’re still in one of the flattest countries, but from the 31

top of it you can have a pretty amazing view of Herning and its surroundings. There is also a table with benches, so pack your picnic basket and go enjoy the sunset in the front row with your friends.

for it), play sport games or spend time with the ducks who live there in the pond – plenty of room for anything. During the summer, it was hard to find a day when the park wasn’t crowded, so I can assume people love this place!

In Herning, beaches are not the strongest point, but there is still something to offer. A favorite among the locals is the Fuglsang Sø, which is a small man-made lake in the northern part of Herning. It has very clean water and a nice sand beach along it . Close to the lake, there is also an illuminated path called Lysløjpen, which is perfect for jogging. But of course, if this lake is not large enough and you don’t mind having a bit of a longer trip, then go find the lake in Sunds (~7km from Herning), which is the largest moorland lake in Denmark.

Riding a bike will probably be your main means of transportation and you’ll commute to school and work, but there’s no reason not to enjoy a pleasant, relaxing bike ride every now and then. You’ll discover that Herning has some really nice bike tracks through some of the forests surrounding the town that are quite enjoyable when you want to get away from the noisy streets. Take the road less traveled as Frost’s poem says and enjoy the trees!

Believe it or not, but you can find some nice natural places for a spontaneous getaway quite in the middle of the town. Right behind the train station, there is a park called Søndre Anlæg that is known for its large rhododendron bushes. If you are not into admiring the flora there, you can have a picnic or a barbecue (there is even a place

HERNING MAP BEST PLACES TO CHECK OUT (map is on next page!) LEGEND Location Pin

Supermar ket

Bike shop

Spor t

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Par t y / Relax

Ser vice s

Transpor t ation

Main road Road River / Water bank

Impor t ant building

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Park / Green zone

PLE ACE S THAT ARE GOOD TO KNOW Herning Kommune kommunen@herning .dk Tor vet 5, 7400 Herning 96 28 28 28

Cy kelcenter w w w.c y kelcenter-herning .dk Bredgade 47, 7400 Hernin g 97 12 11 14

Hospi t al Gl. L ande vej 61, DK-7400 Herning 78 43 00 00

Herning Librar y w w w.herningbib.dk Østergade 8, 7400 Hernin g 96 28 88 00

Herning Cit y w w w.herningcit y.dk Østergade 21, 7400 Hernin g 96 27 22 33

Police w w w.politi.dk/ Nørregade 1, 7400 Hernin g 96 14 14 48

Kontrast w w w.f acebook .com/ KONTRA ST.Herning/ Bethaniagade 3, 7400 Hernin g 20 47 30 43

Herning Jobcenter jobcenter.herning .dk Godsbane vej 1B, 7400 Hernin g 96 28 50 00

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now if you are a student

Last year the wonderful people from VIA Design re-launched the TEKO Friday bar and since then itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been ready to welcome students from all around Herning. This year we are waiting for some fresh flesh cough, cough - freshmen.

The events take part in the chill pla under Lunch ce Box.

Come and join your fellow students! Grab a drink and relax. The environment is just fine to meet up with some other cool people, have a chitchat, play some games and set in your weekend mood. After all some music, fun and socializing is all you need.

Well, after all, we are students, so no worries! The team makes sure their prices are the lowest in town. You are not going to spend more than 20 kr. for a single drink, of course depending on how eager you are on winning that flip-the-cup game. The payment is easy to arrange as you can pay by cash, card or even mobile pay. Better yet, get your pocket money and drinking skills prepared, because you will attend at least one of these bars, guaranteed. And in case you like the taste of it and want more, you are more than welcome!

(hence the name Friday bar) is the right time to hang around and warm up for the night. The team organizes events and promotes them via their Facebook page (TEKO Friday Bar), so stay tuned. 37

WHERE TO DRINK

IN HERNING? KNOW BEST PARTY STOPS &

DONT GET CONFUSED AGAIN Text by Aela Nikolova

Herning’s Party Stops – places to enjoy, from the city centre and beyond

outside in good weather. Has a spacious second floor available as well, usually frequented by locals.

1One of the preferred spots in town, known Fox and Hounds, Østergade 17

5Known

Kontrast, Betaniagade 3 for organising theme parties, usually enjoyed by students. Relatively spacious, also known for good music and not too expensive drinks.

to have a tiny bit classier atmosphere than usual. Prices for a beer are higher than some other pubs, but it is generally known as a place for gentlemen and, for some reason, trivia quiz lovers. Live music and a splendid variety of spirits, which you can enjoy on a night out only if you are 21 and above.

6The classiest of them all. Live music, good Piano Bar, Østergade 25

atmosphere, the place to take your date to and have a cosy night together. Prices may appear higher, but the experience is worth it.

Baren, Østergade 11 Looks unusually tiny for a party place, but indeed people dance and enjoy themselves here over a game of pool or foosball. Popular among young people, drinks there are often on 2 for 1 offer. Indoor smoking area available.

7Impressive

Jiggers, Smallegade 1 interior and a spacious dancing area. Also a place to put a nice dress on and show some class. A tempting variety of cocktails, for a not-so-tempting price. Good news are great group offers, so bring your squad.

3One sentence – 20 kroner for a Tuborg. Old Irish, Østergade 16

Usually chill on weekdays, live music, often big screening of football games. Also a place to dance, popular among students and indoor smoking area on point.

8Parties on campus, usually organised by Student Huset, Birk Centerpark 7

SAA – cheap drinks and fun theme nights. The place you eventually see everyone you know or you will get to know sooner or later.

Murphy’s, Østergade 20 Right next to Old Irish. Chill interior, average prices, nice to grab a drink and sit 38

Traditional Danish dishes Text by Alexandra Munteanu Illustrations by Ilva Indrikova Needless to say, Danes have a very interesting cuisine. Their tastes might surprise you from time to time, especially when you hear of lakrids and pork crust. But the way in which they cook shows a lot about the Danish way of thinking and their interests. Trying to understand Danish cuisine is yet another way to get into the Danes’ hearts. Denmark, being a mobile society, most inhabitants here have their breakfast and dinner at home, with their family or close ones, while lunch is regularly eaten somewhere else. We have come up with some examples of traditional Danish dishes for each meal of the day.

ingredients for smørrebrød. For example, the main ingredients can be butter or cheese, cold meat or sliced sausages, and slices of hard boiled eggs.

Dinner

Dinner is usually the time when the whole family gathers together, after a day of work or school. An example of a Danish traditional dinner dish is “Burning Love”. A rather uncomplicated meal, Brændende Kærlighed consists of three main ingredients: potatoes, bacon and onions. First, the potatoes are mashed and afterwards, the fried onion and bacon is added on top. Complemented with vegetables or a salad, this dish is delicious. As for dessert, Koldskål (Butter Milk Dessert) with Kammerjunkere (Crispy Biscuits) is an excellent choice as it is light and rejuvenating.

Breakfast Typically, breakfast in Denmark consists of bread (franskbrød, boller, birkes, rundstykker and håndværkere), cheese, butter and jam, with orange or apple juice and coffee. Milk products are also pretty popular, especially if they are combined with oatmeal, corn flakes or muesli.

All in all, if you are interested in cooking, you will learn that you can find many interesting culinary combinations in Danes’ cuisine to suit your taste and brighten your days.

Lunch A typical lunch in Denmark can be a few pieces of smørrebrød, which translates as open rye-bread sandwiches. There are hundreds of possible combinations of

Text by Aela Nikolova VIA Design offers its students the possibility to get to know Danish culture first-hand by providing them with a connection to their own Danish family!

• Don’t be late and arrive on time. • Take off your shoes before coming in. • Bring a gift (flowers, candles, chocolate are good choices). • Before leaving the table, say “Tak for mad” (Thank you for food).

The concept of having a dinner with a Danish family upon your arrival in Herning is a priceless opportunity that you can sign up for during your first weeks in school. Having a Danish family means that VIA will make sure you can get in touch with Danes that are willing to invite internationals to their homes and introduce them to Danish culture, delicious cuisine and interesting traditions. The concept has helped many VIA Design students adapt in the city by establishing long-term connections with their new families, and often one-time visits evolve into lifetime friendships.

classmates’ – so you wouldn’t have to go alone when invited to dinner at their home. It is a good idea to bring something small as a present for their house – flowers or a candle are always a safe choice. Signing up for the experience is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the new environment, meet new people and learn about Danish culture, so don’t miss the chance to participate!

In case you would like to participate, you need to sign up via e-mail – you will receive an invitation during your first weeks attending VIA Design. After you sign up, your contact information will be given to a Danish family, together with one of your 40

We Herning

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WHERE TO FIND YOUR ‘HOME’ IN

DENMARK Text by Alexandra Munteanu

Finding a place to live can prove to 1. FACEBOOK be a difficult and time-consuming Facebook has become ‘the ultimate exchange activity: checking the online medi- site’ – people put their offers online all the um, calling to set up an appointment, time and it’s useful to know some of the seeing the place, checking the con- plaes where you can find accommodation. tract and if it’s not the place for you, Among the groups where you can see some starting all over again until you find posts about available rooms are: Bolig i something that suits your needs – all Herning, TEKO Marketplace, Herning’s online flea market, or Ting til salg i Hammerum og of this takes time and energy. Gjellerup. Many others are filled with offers, However, finding a place to live can so make sure to browse through the Facebe easier if you know where to look! book groups relevant for your search but be aware of scammers. Don’t ever, under any Here is a list of places you can check circumstance, transfer money in advance if you are still looking for a perma- if you don’t know the person. If it looks too good to be true, it probably is. nent place to live… 44

2. WEBSITES

able for you and then check out the offers; the website also requires a paid account to contact the owner.

There are a few websites you can check out if you are looking for a place you want to rent for an indefinite time. Here are the most popular examples:

Although the websites require a small fee to contact the owners, it is worth it in the end, because the offers on the website are usually for undetermined period – here you are most likely to find your permanent home.

• boligportal.dk : this is one of the best websites where you can find accommodation; in case you want to contact the owner, you need to pay a fee of 29kr for a 4-day use of the contact information;

3. AGROSKOLEN Agroskolen is a student dormitory situated close to the university, with friendly prices for students. In case you run out of options, applying for a room in Agroskolen is always a good idea.

• lejehuset.dk: for this website you must make an account in order to look for accommodation – it is useful but it might be difficult to understand the website; remember the translate button on the top of the browser, it is very useful!

There are many possibilities out there for you, just keep your eyes open, stay focused and don’t lose hope! Something will come up, eventually. Make sure to start looking for a place to live at least one month before you have to move out – it’ll save you the panic!

• lejebolig.dk: the good part is that you can choose the website to be in English! Just choose the zip code you need (in this case: 7400, Herning) under Limit search – Area – Zip Code, and add any other filter you think is suit-

Genbrug Y

Text by Cristina Maria

ou’ve probably noticed these little shops all around Herning. They have anything - from books to couches, and everything in between: clothes, kitchen appliances, dishes, paintings – you name it. And they’re so very cheap, sometimes all their prices are marked with three dots: yellow, green and red for 5kr, 10kr, and 25kr. The twist? They’re all second hand objects which have been donated by kind hearts who didn’t have any more use for them. Most often ran by the Red Cross or the Salvation Army using the items that have been donated to them, they sell items that are still beautiful and deserve a second change to be used. The Genbrug stores are the equivalent of charity shops in the UK. Thrift shops or Vintage Stores are also fitting names.

Herning whose English is not quite spectacular. There’s no problem in looking around, buying an item and going on your merry way but if you’re searching for something very specific, you might want to have a few words in Danish at hand. Another thing to know is that some Genbrugs don’t take cards (Visa or otherwise) or require a minimum sum of 50kr to make the payment. It doesn’t sound like much but we can assure you, Genbrugs are those wonderful places where 50kr buys you A LOT. Have some cash with you just in case. Are you that kind soul who wants to help others or simply get rid of some stuff? You can always take your old clothes to the Genbrug boxes located next to one of the entrances to Herning Centret or in Hammerum, next to Super Brugsen. They basically look like large dumpsters (and you’ll often find them next to real dumpsters) with the Genbrug name and logo on them, meaning that you’re looking for the Red Cross or any other of the associations who run the stores. These ones are ok for getting rid of clothes and shoes that are still fit to be worn but maybe you’re just bored with them. If you have larger items to donate, and we can assure that you’ll have them when you will be moving out, it’s recommended to talk to someone who works there.

They will be most useful to those of you who have just moved to Herning and have rented an apartment without any furniture.

If you’re not looking to spend a lot of money, give the Genbrug a try. Their furniture and kitchen selection isn’t you grandma’s crusty old couch but rather charming pieces with a lot of personality – think hand painted writing desks – sold for what a few meatballs at Ikea would cost you.

You’ll find most of the Genbrugs that are scattered around Herning, but these things are always popping up somewhere you’d never thought possible so kindly let us know on Facebook about your newest find and enjoy the shopping spree – guilt free.

What do you need to watch out for? The people who work at the Genbrug are usually volunteers so they’re mostly sweet older women who care for nothing more than to help but will probably be the only people in 46

The HEART Museum of Contemporary Art Andy Warhol the Man behind the Myth Text by Alexandra Munteanu and Valeria Solonari Photos by Iwan Baan

or more than four years, camera-toting tourists gazing at the both beautiful and clean surroundings of Herning or students running on bicycles around the city’s university campus, have been snapping pictures of a one-level, gleamingwhite and nameless building. Years later after its release, here I stand in front of this relatively new museum and my stomach thrusts out like the one of a little girl’s, knowing that this is merely the understated representation of what the artistic future will hold.

the inspiration for the design concept, as a fabric theme has been carried throughout the project; from the shape of the building resembling a collection of shirt- sleeves viewed from above, through its wall niches, which again yield a fabric texture to its exterior.

Since 2009, it stands as the only institution in Herning devoted to art, and it is intended to be an innovative forum combining visual art and music, ranging from masterpieces of abstract expressionism and pop art, to recent works by young and emerging artists.

The HEART Museum of Contemporary Art, the city’s gloriously modern 21st century custom gallery, covers a good 60.000 square feet with a serene landscape that had languished in a state of solitude until several years ago. At the plea of the Danish and foreign curators, the American architect Steven Holl roused himself to recover the image of the site. He managed not only to offer a certain consistency to Birk Centerpark, but also to consecrate it as a mark of the conceptual map that describes the contemporary Danish artistic domain. Herning’s prominent relationship with textiles and art, formed

Both permanent and temporary exhibition galleries hold place for a 150-seat auditorium, music rehearsal rooms, a restaurant, a media library and an active landscape, all intended to offer quality entertainment to the touristhungry Herning. Making excellent use of the wide open spaces of Birk Centerpark, this vast gallery 48

displays the work of the world’s best artists, holding an important position in the area of promotional activities of contemporary Danish art. Oriented towards the public and envisaging a highly free and innovative selection of works, it fulfills the need of being a vital arbiter of new art, architecture and design. The HEART Museum showcases the most ambitious and challenging art of our time by emerging mid-career artists, such as Paul Gadegaard, Bjorn Norgaard, Mario Merz, Knud Hvidberg, John Korner, and Troels Worsel among others. Among the exhibitions that HEART presents to its viewers and art-lovers we have powerful artistic abstractions by the late mad genius ‘Pope of Pop’ from the US, Andy Warhol; Piero Manzoni’s quirky straw sculpture; childish and colorful themes of imprisonment by Korner, to the impressive works of art by Sven Dalsgaard and Joseph Beuys.

and international exhibiting institutions. Herning strives to be different. The city has, now for many years, looked outwards, in unexpected directions, and invited the best of the world’s art and artists to be involved in the city’s cultural life. Therefore, HEART promises nothing less than the exquisite with this year’s special showcase: Andy Warhol – the Man behind the Myth, which you can savor from the 3rd of September 2016 until the 8th of January 2017. This exhibition explores not only the glossy and colorful works of art by the father of pop art, Andy Warhol, but also a dimension of his personal life. It approaches themes of sexuality, faith, religion and death, and it serves as a point of convergence where one can look deep into the clashing particularities of Andy Warhol’s religious life, as well as his homosexuality. This anew exhibition of HEART is indeed one-of-a-kind and it will feature an extensive number of works – just to give you an idea, more than 80 works were borrowed from the Warhol Museum in Pittsburgh and 10 works from the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art, in order to showcase this exposition. In

Uniquely positioned with a program focused on contemporary art from all over the world, Herning is now presenting the contemporary art with such novelty and dynamism that is not regularly exhibited or represented within the mainstream of European art fairs 49

addition, HEART will showcase for the first time in Europe the work “Ten punching bags“ that Andy Warhol created together with Jean-Michel Basquiat in 1985-1986.

and what this visual art movement implied for the evolution of art, or you simply wish to disconnect from your day-to-day tasks and treat yourself with a tour at the exquisite HEART Museum of Contemporary Art, you will be definitely bewildered by this exhibition, as it promises to live up to the highest of standards.

Andy Warhol – the Man behind the Myth intends to showcase the artist as a private person and to make connections between the personal experiences that marked his evolution both as an artist and as a man. Therefore, the project does not stop at showing just his classic works of art, characterized by an unmistakable style, but it also promulgates the personal magnitude behind his artistic career. It spotlights a rich selection of his private items, including his prayer book, books about health and diets or his collection of homosexual pornography. Be it that you are a declared fan of pop art

Conclusively, though you may not be the most eligible art lover and appreciator, Steven’s renovation of HEART is itself worth a trip to the city: cool, light and with a touch of modern elegance, with lofty rooms giving postcard views. HEART’s naked ensemble, unbowed by the crystal splendor around it, holds center stage outdoors declaring its presence. Enjoy!

Andy Warhol - The man behind the myth 03.09.16 - 08.01.17 The biggest exhibition in Denmark since 2000 including works shown in Europe for the first time

FREE ENTRANCE As a student in Birk you have free entrance t ID card - just remember your studen

HERNING MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART BIRK CENTERPARK 8 · DK 7400 HERNING · WWW.HEARTMUS.DK

ce a l p t s e b r u The o y d n e p to s e m i t e e r f hman Amir Ra or Lassen & d n a n e ens Aln Tine Sør rgaard, Anders Text by te s Ø r e yP Photos b llet e P is n Ja

2005 Amir Rehman, one of the key founders

What by glance introduces a demolished facade with old wooden doors and walls covered with colorful grafftiti are in fact the host of an exuberant cultural hub for Herning creative souls and active youth.

of Kontrast, was engaged in the cultural and musical scene of Herning at the time. He recognized the demand for a social community of alternative lifestyles as well as an opportunity within the underground cultural scene. Amir saw his chance at a political meeting in Team Teatret. A younger politician supported the idea of a house project for younger people in Herning.

Behind the neat and somewhat idyllic streets of downtown Herning is where you will run into what looks like a discarded tumbling down building. This indeed contrasts the traditional appearances you may come across around Herning city. What by glance introduces a demolished facade with old wooden doors and walls covered with colorful grafftiti is in fact the host of an exuberant cultural hub for Herning’s creative souls and active youth. The initiative of establishing a youth house spun out of need from Herning’s youth, calling for a place with room for more unconventional thoughts and ideas.

2006 The politician, Amir, his friend Tommy

Olsen and local cultural peers joined to establish a workgroup for a youth house in Herning, which was to become Kontrast later. Not long after, the local newspaper and local older conservative politicians put down the idea. The reaction from the youth was striking, who decided to march in protest. People were missing a place to 52

meet. The message behind the march: “The alternative youth gathering of Herning need a place of their own”.

at the same time it’s placed near the parking lot of the city hall.

2008 Kontrast officially came alive!

2007 In the beginning of the year, a young

person named Rasmus Nørfeldt joined the group. The group became an organization within the following months. The board members settled on the name Kontrast, to showcase the diversity of ideas. Politicians as well as the city council could no longer ignore the enthusiasm and engagement of its younger inhabitants. At the end of the year, the board had a meeting with members of the city hall, and it was decided to give Kontrast the old building which previously was a part of the music school. The youth house organization was promised this building in the new year. The location, Bethaniagade 3A in the center of the city and

Kontrast gives Herning a counterculture essence and a radical edge, which can also be found in major cities such as Aarhus and Copenhagen. It is the place where alternative cultures can thrive and function as a meeting point for all types of people. Not only does Kontrast provide young people and citizens in general an alternative to the conventional range of opportunities and leisure of the city, but also engage people to influence the cultural life of Herning by offering an open place with space and opportunity to give new ideas a chance. Kontrast believe in a “do-it-yourself” philosophy. 53

Anyone can come and join and help shaping the place. Monday meetings are open for people to come and propose a new action or an event of any kind. Anything is welcome from concerts to workshops, poker nights, music, art, drama, dance - you name it. Furthermore the weekly Wednesday chill and Friday’s bar provide similar opportunities.

heart of Herning. Whether it is for a coffee, a game of cards, to hang out with friends or to rock up (something you must do) at one of their concerts. Reggae, rock’ n’ roll, dancehall, punk, jazz, metal, acid rock, hardcore, funk, hip hop and electronica are just a few out of the rare selection of underground tunes you won’t find anywhere else in Herning.

Visiting Kontrast is never the same experience, this impulsive and dynamic environment always surprises, inspires or even provokes you. Do not miss out the opportunity to pop by this contrasted alternative building in the

Find more information on Kontrast:

www.kontrast-herning.dk

FALL PROGRAM

2016

3/9: "SPRAY PAINT THE WALLS" (HARDCORE) DONATION BASED - NO ENTRANCE FEE 7/10: "TRUCKER ROCKER" (HEAVY ROCK) ENTRY: 50,15/10: "FOLK EXPLOSION" (FOLK) ENTRY: 40,22/10: "BEAT 'EM UP - AFTERPARTY" (HIPHOP) " FREE! NO ENTRANCE FEE 29/10: "BASS-MENT" (RAVE PARTY) ENTRY: 40,FACEBOOK.COM/GROUPS/KONTRAST.HERNING

Text by Wojciech Zmijski Pictures by FruehĂ¸jgaard 56

WHERE?

Starting off with just the fact that the average age of most tenants in Birk is between 18-25 years. Most of the students living here are international, so you find yourself in a tiny campus community composed of a broad national diversity and a mix of traditions adapted to the cold Danish weather. You don’t have anyone complaining about too loud music or too many parties - unless it is exam time or you forgot to invite them.

Different names, including Birkistan with lot of different nationalities (Birksters) and small white houses in the middle of nowhere.

If you’re expecting a campus like the ones from American movies, then unfortunately, or fortunately, our Campus will not fulfill your expectations. Birk Centerpark has its own way of “campusing”: Welcome to Birk, please have a look around!

If you are just freshly arrived and haven’t had time to really get to know your neighbors, Birk Campus has a yearly tradition called “Tour the Chambre”. In this event everyone shows their houses to visitors and prepares some snacks and drinks. To participate you sign up as a host and there is sort of a planned route with “visiting times”. At the end of the day, everyone, participants or not meet at the Student House for a big party, sort of “Good to see you after holidays” party.

It might be quite confusing. It is not really centrally located, you sort of have a park, except it’s more like a grassy labyrinth… however it is definitely the Centrum of everything happening when you are a student at AU-Herning or TEKO.

After you are settled in, you can start exploring. Although the campus is situated ca. 4 km from Herning downtown, you will quickly find out that going to the center by bus or bike becomes an evening workout, when you really need to get there. There are enough occasions to socialize within the premises of the campus.

WHAT? Having lived in 3 different places in Herning in the past 3 years, I can say from experience that you can best be part of all the socially active events, when you are closest to the source.

For one, you have the Student House two steps away and there are always parties happening somewhere close by. The Student House is open twice a week, showing Champions League, Eurovision and other important events happening around the world.

The advantages to living right where everything begins are it’s a lot easier to commute to and from and be the first one to participate in all things fun around. And there are a lot of things going on. 57

Text by Cristina Maria Photo by Inge Lynggaard Hansen

ou’re here, you have your place to stay, maybe you haven’t figured out what exactly is Bilka, but classes are starting so there’s no time to waste. Herning prides itself with an assortment of internationals, you’ll probably meet classmates from Sweden and Poland just as you will from Brazil or India. No matter the country, we all have different backgrounds, educationally speaking. Whether we’re already used to the friendly Nordic system or feel more comfortable with formal Eastern European styles of teaching, now that we’re here, we have to adapt. It is probably one of the major culture shocks that new students have when they join a university in Denmark because no amount of research into the system will prepare you for the real thing. Maybe you haven’t even bothered researching, as you like to live on the edge. You’ll quickly find out that the king system here is the:

nonsense, but what you really need to know is that mommy and daddy are not here to hold your hand anymore. The teachers will act more as a guide for you. Sure, they will come with a lesson plan and a few Powerpoints, but make no mistake, no one will ASK anything of you. Gone are the days when you had to write down everything they said or be ready at any time to answer something, some of them won’t even care if you’re skipping.

The responsibility is all on YOU. If you’d rather stay in your warm bed and devour cupcakes, there’s no one to stop you but rest assured (pun intended) that you’ll regret the choice when you go back to class and notice that all the groups have been formed and everyone is on their way with some project or another.

“problem based learning”. A quick search on Wikipedia will let you know all about its history and how it’s a student-centered pedagogy and all that 58

The problem based learning approach also dictates that when you are faced with a problem, you have to think your way out of it. There will usually be a task, whether it’s a large project or simply a question in class, and you will have to solve it. More often than not, there won’t be a fixed answer and students running to their teacher in hopes of finding this perfect solution will be disappointed. Another thing that you will learn is how to ask questions and that there are no stupid ones.

mon core experience. Inevitably, fashion designers will have a mental breakdown at some point, sooner or later, because they have to do another task in Supply Chain Management. Worry not, that’s the whole point. In the first VIA Design semester, you’ll get to see what everyone is learning, from Global Marketing and Communication to sketching classes. This will help you with the decision that you will be offered to switch specialities at the end of the first semester. There will be plenty of people explaining you the 7 point grading scale (including us, a few pages onwards) but you’ll have to figure problem based learning on your own.

A very interesting thing that VIA Design offers, and which comes as a surprise to a lot of students, is the first semester as a com59

THE DANISH

GRADING METHOD F

Text by Aela Nikolova Photo by Inge Lynggaard Hansen

or students coming from all over the world to study in Denmark, one of the first school things they need to get used to is the different system that is applied when evaluating your work. The 7-point grading scale was introduced in 2007, replacing an even more complicat-

ed system (the old 13-scale), thus making it more compatible with international evaluation systems. The following table will make it easier for you to understand what each mark is usually given for and its equivalent ECTS, illustrated with some humorous real-life examples. Enjoy! 60

DANISH MARK

EXPLANATION

FOR AN EXCELLENT PERFORMANCE

FOR A VERY GOOD PERFORMANCE

FOR A GOOD PERFORMANCE

FOR A FAIR PERFORMANCE

FOR AN ADEQUATE PERFORMANCE

FOR AN INADEQUATE PERFORMANCE

-3

FOR AN UNACCEPTABLE PERFORMANCE

ECTS EQUIVALENT

WHAT DID I DO?

You made a plan, followed it through, most likely didn’t have a breakdown the night before, presented right into the time frame, did your research like a good kid and referenced everything right. You answered all questions and made kick-ass visuals/products. Your parents should be proud.

You either: a. Are smart but unlucky and a tricky question might have slipped away from your attention. b. Were just a tiny bit lazy and didn’t live up to your full potential. c. Are an underestimated genius and karma hates you.

You knew you should have prepared better. You knew they were probably going to ask you about that thing you tried so hard to avoid talking about on your presentation because you don’t get it either, but you had to mention just in case. Also, your references probably suck, but at least you tried. Still a good mark, still deserves to be celebrated with a beer. Or two.

Congratulations! You thought you might not have passed, right? You panicked the night before and would have said a little prayer before going to bed, but you didn’t, so it was technically pure luck? Oh, sweetheart, it can always be worse. You are still a good kid (even if not the brightest) and we still love you.

Jesus! Sorry to say, but you must have really sucked! At that point it is better for teachers to fail you, so you can show up again and take the chance of having a higher mark. We suggest you plan your time and put your project a bit higher in your list of priorities, darling. You still pass though, even though we can’t help feeling sorry.

You failed, at least we hope, with grace. You better buckle up and do something about it if given the chance to retake your exam. We are not going to say anything more about it, because you are feeling bad enough already – being classified under the numerical value of a 0 is harsh enough.

You, sir, are a hero. One in a million. A rare diamond, shining brighter than Rihanna can imagine. Wow. Just wow. What did you do, for goodness’ sake?! We are actually in awe – you just started an urban legend which is going to travel around the school and mesmerize freshmen for generations to come. Cheers!

Text by Aela Nikolova You have the right to know your rights – this article is an essential read to every student in Denmark, as being aware of the legal system in your new country of residence is an important first step for your integration in the Danish society.

RESIDENCE PERMIT

WORKING PERMIT

As a student, you have the right to obtain a residence permit in Denmark. If you are a Nordic citizen, you do not need a residence permit. However, if you are staying for more than 6 months, you need to register with the Danish authorities. If you are an EU/EEA citizen, you will need a residence permit, if you are staying in Denmark for more than three months. Usually, residence permit legislation can be organised by your educational institution – in this case – VIA Design. Read more about the procedure in our articles covering the Yellow card and obtaining a CPR number.

As a student, you have the right to work in Denmark to support yourself financially during your studies. If you are a Nordic, EU/EEA or Swiss citizen, there are no restrictions to the number of hours you can work in Denmark. As a non-EU/EAA student you can work for up to 20 hours a week while you study in the country and full-time during June, July and August. However, this requires a work permit sticker in your passport.

DANISH LANGUAGE CLASSES

maintenance payments. Seek advice from your Danish bank.

You have the right to study Danish for free for up to 3 years upon your arrival in the country . As an international student or employee in Denmark you can take Danish language lessons free of charge. To sign up you need your Danish CPR number and you can choose between day or evening courses, which are concluded with a state-approved test in line with the Common European Framework for Languages. Read more in our article about Laerdansk – the language center for international students in Herning city.

DANISH HEALTHCARE SYSTEM The Danish healthcare system offers equal and universal access for all residents. As an international student and resident in Denmark you will have access to free medical treatments with some exceptions, such as dental care and physiotherapy. In accordance with the Danish Health Act, all non-residents staying in Denmark are entitled to emergency hospital care free of charge 'in the event of an accident, childbirth, acute illness or sudden aggravation of a chronic disease'. All other health care services must be paid for by you or your insurance.

DANISH BANK ACCOUNT AND DANISH FINANCIAL INSTITUTION All international students are advised to open a Danish bank account. To do so, you must first obtain a Danish CPR number (i.e. ID number). You can also transfer money from your Danish account to your home account. Transfer may take a few days and will most probably cost you a fee, depending on the terms and conditions of the bank you have chosen to collaborate with. You need to register your Danish bank account with the Danish tax authority as a ‘Nemkonto’ (i.e. an ‘easy account’), which will allow public authorities to make direct payments to you – like wages, tax rebates or

If you are an EU/EEA citizen or a Swiss national and you plan to stay in Denmark for less than 3 months, and provided you are covered by a statutory health insurance service in another EU country, you can use your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to access any healthcare service that becomes medically necessary during your stay in Denmark.

Useful links: www.nyidanmark.dk www.studyindenmark.dk www.sundhed.dk 63

Source: studyindenmark.dk

BECOME A

MENTEE GET TO KNOW VIA! Text by Aela Nikolova Photo by Inge Lynggaard Hansen This year VIA Design, in collaboration with VIA’s veterans – experienced students from 2nd semester and above – is offering freshmen the opportunity to get their very own mentor to help them adapt to student life and get all the information they need on a student-to-student basis.

screaming “I WANT ONE! “ - keep in mind that it is like applying for an older brother/sister – they might love you unconditionally but still won’t volunteer to do the weekly chores instead of you. Mentors are kind, angel-like creatures that should be treated with respect, meaning: as a mentee, you should not take it for granted that your mentor will be available 24/7 or be obliged to fulfil your responsibilities as a student.

Having a mentor means that you will be connected to one personal, helpful volunteer that will be there for you to explain or answer any question you might have regarding accommodation, school life and other student tips you will be curious to learn about. Not to mention the networking opportunity – experienced students already know a lot of people in the city and might be able to connect you to the right place/person you need, alongside providing priceless advice during your study period in VIA Design.

You will be informed about the programme and given the chance to apply for becoming a mentee at the start of your school year. For further info and questions regarding the application procedure you are welcome to contact VIA administration office. P.S. We have heard that mentors are pretty cool and know the best party places in town. Hint, hint. P.P.S. GET ONE ASAP!

In case you are reading this and silently 64

THE

EXPERIENCE Text by Per Tøffner Knudsen

Ever wondered how it would be to just pack your bags and fly to Asia? Well, if you haven’t, we can bet you’re wondering now. How about mixing this cultural experience with university classes and a challenging internship? Read on to find out more about VIA Design’s unique opportunities in Vietnam and China. WHAT CHALLENGES WILL YOU BE FACING WHEN YOU GRADUATE FROM YOUR STUDIES? VIA Design just published the findings of the Business Survey 2016 this June and the survey concludes the findings of 105 respondents from globally oriented companies within different business sectors. The 5 most important strategic challenges facing your future employers are the following: • Increased Globalization • Increased Professionalism creates business growth • Increased New knowledge is cascading and allocates • Increased Social capital, social intelligence & robustness is needed • Increased skills in communication and digital skills is needed 66

In order to become attractive as a future employee you should take into account these business challenges into your professional career plan. You should consider accelerating your international knowledge, competence and experience by developing handson professionalism in a relevant foreign business environment, where you train your oral as well as digital communication skills. You will then benefit from extended social skills and professional robustness. The outcome will be a push forward of your future business career.

ding lessons in local language and culture for 4 weeks with an internship of 9 weeks. The 3rd semester furthermore includes a 4 week analysis for a local company with the purpose of suggesting improvements of the business model of the company.

HOW TO APP LY â&#x20AC;˘ You must apply in the beginning of March in order to participate in the program for 3rd semester. (Starting middle of August to mid-December, the present year).

WHY SHOULD YOU CONSIDER PARTICIPATION IN THE VIA DESIGN TALENT PROGRAM?

â&#x20AC;˘ You must apply in the beginning of November in order to participate in the program for 6th semester. (Starting beginning of January to mid-April, the following year).

Major brand owners not only produce their products in Asia but they also set up Brand and Retail concepts there in order to benefit from the Asian economic growth. In 2012 VIA Design started the Talent Program together with Dong Hua University in Shanghai, China, and Hutech University in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, in order to give you the opportunity to build up an international experience. China and Vietnam were the chosen destinations because these countries have economic high-growth business environments well above the western world. You are able to participate in the Talent Program if you are a Purchasing, Branding or Retail student. The Talent Program applies to 3rd and 6th semester students. This extends your internship program by inclu-

Please be aware there is a maximum of 12 students per program. The approximate fee for participation is DKK 25.000 (includes travel insurance, flight ticket, accommodation, food, vaccines and visa). VIA Design does not cover expenses, but you can apply for educational funding.

For further information including an informational brochure please contact Ms. Helle Ahler, heah@via.dk She is situated in the C-building in Campus Herning. 67

Text by Cristina Maria Photo by Inge Lynggaard Hansen One of the special things about your VIA Design diploma is that it’s not only recommended to take a summer internship but it’s actually MANDATORY. As in you can’t finish your degree without gaining practical experience in a company (and writing quite a lengthy report on it).

can always ask a favourite teacher for some ideas, but truth be said, it’s all on you. This is why the university recommends starting to look as early as March even if the actual internship only starts around the beginning of July. A list of companies who have collaborated in the past with VIA and VIA students is available for downloading on Studienet if you need some inspiration.

There are two internship periods: 3rd semester and 6th semester, both having a minimum of 9 weeks.

One important thing to remember if you choose to do an international internship, even if it takes place in your home country, is that the Erasmus foundation will provide a GRANT if you send in an application. Solveig Pedersen (spe@via.dk) takes care of the funding and will gladly help with the process. The sum itself differs depending on the country you choose, but it usually covers the cost of accommodation.

After 3 semesters as an international, you’ll probably feel like that’s the only life you want to live so it’s natural to feel the need to travel again. Worry not, VIA Design encourages INTERNSHIPS OUTSIDE OF DENMARK. What you need to know is that, again, no one will be there to hold your hand. You have to find your own internship, write a cover letter and a CV, do the interviews and win the job. Just like in real life!

Last but not least, there will be a lengthy report to write about your company and the deadline for it will reach you sooner than you might expect, so DON’T POSTPONE the internship for a holiday (no matter how well deserved it is) and keep a tight schedule!

Sure, there will be some courses and you 68

CALENDAR Take a look below and find out which dates are set for the public and school holidays as well as the main events of this academic year. You can find more information on the next page.

SEPTEMBER S

OCTOBER

S 1

JANUARY

FEBRUARY

MAY S

JUNE

2016-2017 S

NOVEMBER T W T

DECEMBER T W T

MARCH S

APRIL

JULY S

AUGUST T

SCHOOL HOLIDAYS 17th - 21st of October

Efterårs-Ferie (kartoffel-ferien)

22nd of December 2nd of January

Winter Holidays

SCHOOL EVENTS 1st of September

Sart of School Year (Freshmen)

5th of September

Herning City Tour Guide with FOCUS Student Magazine

23rd of September

Focus and SAA Beer Pong

27th of September 4th of October 11th of October 18th of October

"IdeaAgent - Bring your ideas to action" by VIA Student Incubator.

25th of October 1st of November 8th of November

"LEAN workshop no. 1" by VIA Student Incubator.

15th of December

"LEAN workshop no. 2" by VIA Student Incubator.

HERNING CITY EVENTS 12th - 18th of September

"International Market" at Torvet.

11th of November

"Expat Fair Herning"

NATIONAL HOLIDAYS 1st of January

First Day of the New Year (Nytårsdag)

13th of April

Holy Thursday before Easter Sunday (Skærtorsdag)

14th of April

Holy Friday before Easter Sunday (Langfredag)

17th of April

Monday after Easter Sunday (2. Påskedag)

1st of May

International Worker’s Day (Arbejderbevægelsens Internationale Kampdag)

12th of May

Great Prayer Day (Store Bededag)

25th of May

Ascension Day (Kristi Himmelfartsdag)

5th of June

Constitution Day and National Day of Denmark (Grundlovsdag) 72

Mette Louise Christensen

Text by Aela Nikolova

mlc@via.dk 87 55 11 78

In case you need any information related to your study programme, want to ask about exchange options or need assistance connecting to the school network – don’t hesitate to contact VIA Design’s staff who are always ready to answer your questions! Keep in mind that VIA specialists are often away from the administration building, attending meetings during school days, so in case you need help it would be a good idea to approach them a few days in advance by requesting an appointment by e-mail or phone.

Pernille Dalsgaard Timetabling

ped@via.dk 87 55 05 22

Anja Pajbjerg

Skemaplanlægger

anpa@via.dk 87 55 05 74

Gitte Villemoes Larsen

Birgitte Dalsgaard

Head of Business Programme

bdni@via.dk 87 55 14 48

givl@via.dk 8755 0506 Helle Schjermer Lauridsen

Dobromira Marinova Kuneva

Head of Purchasing Management Programme

hesl@via.dk 8755 0531

207214@via.dk

Pia Vejrup Larsen

Anne-Sofie Sevelsted Berthelsen

Head of Design Programme

pil@via.dk 8755 0559

207214@via.dk 74

Connie Foged Lindholm

Malene Harsaae

Coordinator

Fashion Design

cfl@via.dk 87 55 50 20

mhr@via.dk

Anne-Louise Degn Hansen

Mette Terkildsen

International Student Counselor

Pattern Design

aldh@via.dk 87 55 05 48

mete@via.dk

Elsebeth Quvang

Eva Paarmann

Student Counselor

Furniture Design

equ@via.dk 87 55 05 34

evp@via.dk

Solveig Fløe

Signe Mørk Madsen

Student Counselor

Retail Design & Management

sfl@via.dk 87 55 05 32

smm@via.dk

Søren Rosted Bang

Stefan Evers-Gross

Student Counselor and Work Placement Coordinator

IT Supporter

support@via.dk 87 55 12 12

srb@via.dk 87 55 05 60

Birthe Bang Jørgensen

Solveig Hagel Pedersen

IT Supporter

Int. Exchange Coordinator

support@via.dk 87 55 12 12

spe@via.dk 75

Text by Odette Charles El-Hayek Illustrations by Odette Charles El-Hayek

Planning on studying at school after work hours? Are you a desperate design student struggling with deadlines? Better learn how to enter the school after classes.

dings with a four digit pin code of your choice. Now, of course, you have to remember that entering the buildings after 18:00h, when no employees are around brings certain responsibilities. Carry your card every time you go out of a building, because doors are automatically locked again and you don’t want to be left out.

Now you might think: “Who would actually want to stay that late in school?”. Well, history knows countless cases. And no, not only fashion design students are tied to the sewing equipment. Believe it or not, other specialties feel the urge too, so better read this.

The card works only until 23:00h, meaning you must be out by that time. Otherwise you will get trapped in, risk activating the alarm and ha-ving the authorities come to save you (not to mention that pretty little fine you never asked for).

All VIA Design employees are out of charge after the last classes and of course the school keeps doors open afterwards. But the catch is that buildings automatically get locked after 18:00h. Luckily enough if you need more time or you have any plans on going to school in the evening or the weekends, there are a few options.

Well this is the most common one and applies to all specialties. There is an option of getting an after-work-time access by simply going to the boutique and asking for it. Easy like that! The kind ladies will change the settings on your student card and on the next day you will be able to get in any of the buil-

Exactly 10 minutes in advance you will hear a beeping sound that speeds up with every minute. Rest assured, you’re no Tom Cruise and this isn’t “Mission Impossible’’. The alarm isn’t on - yet. This signals that you have 10 minutes left to pack up and clean your work space.

Be a team player and make sure that if there are people around, they know what to do. One last thing before leaving is to check all the doors in the building. They should all be closed and locked ensuring the alarm won’t turn on during the night.

How does this sound: A card allowing you to work at school even through the night? It is possible to get access to the night card, but with special negotiations with the administration (usually for final exams or urgent deadlines). Now this one works differently. You will get a card and a paper with instructions on how to use it plus the pin code it requires. The night card allows entrance in only one building and should not be used for the rest. Rules apply to this one as well. You do need to get out before 23:00h and then enter again with the card’s pin. Easy for now, but remember that the card comes with real responsibilities. If more people are staying, there should be a list with their names and student numbers. Entering the building isn’t possible without the night card, so make sure there are no locked out people. Before leaving make sure all lights are off, doors are locked and the workspace is clean.

• Activate your student card to get access to school until 23:00h at the boutique. • Negotiate a possible night card with the administration. • Always carry your student card when entering and leaving the building after 18:00h. • Leave the building before 23:00h and make sure all doors are closed. • Clean your workspace before leaving. 77

Text by Ieva Ozolina Illustrations by Olga Mangurova & Ilva Indrikova

Moving to a new city is always full of surprises and challenges, especially when you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know your way around it. Luckily, there are plenty of options for getting around in Herning and outside it. Take a close look at the following pages and get acquainted with how to travel in Denmark!

So to speak, all public transportation systems such as city buses, regional buses and trains are easy to access in Herning. But for students, these means of transportation are often too expensive, so, of course, the cheapest way to get from location A to B is and will always be the bicycle. From previous expe- r i e n c e , I can state that the bicycle the favorite way of transportation for students. However, if they need to bring their project to school or if it rains and they need to get to university dry and preferably not curly, students choose to use the public transport.

s e k Bi

The easiest way to travel around Herning is with the yellow city buses; it’s pretty hard not to notice them or the bus stops in Herning. All yellow city buses leave from the central station, close to the cinema. There are many well-thought routes that reach all areas of the city and its suburbs, so you don’t have to worry about getting to your desired destination. For inter-city connections, there is the bus station between the train station and the central station (better known as the place with the blue buses). If you are not sure where the bus is heading or which buses are leaving from a particular bus stop, you can check the timetable and the bus numbers at the bus stop. Also, there are a few web pages and apps that can help you plan your trips – we’ll get to them in the following paragraphs.

For students, the main buses are 2A, 2B and 5, which can get you from Herning or Hammerum to university campuses. You can also ride by train – there are hourly trains with the route Herning – Birk Centerpark – Hammerum.

If you want to travel in Denmark, Rejseplanen is the right tool for planning your schedule. It helps you plan the route with any bus company (local and regional), as well as trains and subway. The most useful advantage of this tool is that it describes in detail the time frames, the walking distance, all the bus stops, even the route on the map. The tickets can be obtained online from Rejseplanen, but not for all means of transportation. For an easier planning of your travelling itinerary, you can download the Rejseplanen app, which is a lot simpler to use and navigate for information. You can also use the website: www.rejseplanen.dk. 79

Never forget that people around are always polite and ready to help if someone is in need, so just ask for directions if you ever lose your way!

If you are considering using the bus as your means of transportation, you can buy a single ticket in the bus with cash, or with the Midttrafik app. If you want to travel by train, tickets must be bought online, using Midttafrik or DSB apps or using the ticket machines. It is not possible to buy a ticket after you boarded the train. And always remember to have the ticket with you!

If you plan to ride the bus every once in a while, it is more convenient to buy a multi-ride card – the 10 rides “klippekort”. It’s much cheaper to choose the klippekort instead of buying a single ticket. For example, a 10 ride klippekort for 2 zones costs 140kr, which means that a single ride will cost 14kr instead of 20kr. You can buy a klippekort with the Midttrafik app or at the Midttrafik webshop. The sale of these physical tickets has ended on the 15th of August, so this type of ticket is now available only digitally. If you have questions about this type of ticket or about transportation in or outside of Herning, you can always find help and guidance at the central bus station in Herning. Also, you can check the official Midttrafik website for more information: www.midttrafik.dk.

Passengers who don’t have the ticket are fined with 750kr and, believe me, it’s not worth it to travel without a ticket. The price depends on the number of zones you cross. All of Denmark is divided in zones: crossing 1 and 2 zones costs 20kr, and for every additional zone 10kr is added to the price. From the center of Herning to Birk Campus is 1 zone, so the price is 20kr. Expensive, right? If you want to save money, you should know that there are many other ticket/ride possibilities you can consider. In addition, you should know that the tickets are valid for about an hour from the moment of purchase and you can use them for different bus numbers and trains. That means that you don’t have to buy a new ticket every time you switch the connection – all that matters is the zones and the time period for which it is valid. 80

Rejsekort is a travel card that can be used when travelling by bus, train and metro. The system is a combination of different transport operators, travel zones, ticketing systems and discount schemes. You can get multiple discounts using this travel card. The quantity of the discount is determined by how you travel, how much you’ve traveled and the type of card you are using. There are three types of cards - Rejsekort Personal, Rejsekort Flex and Rejsekort Anonymous.

Rejsekort Personal is a personal card (as the name suggests), and it can only be used by the registered card holder. Your name and picture will be placed on the card, so it is not transferable. This card gives you access to Rejsekort’s online self-service, which offers you the opportunity to manage it, buy credit, reload it or set an automatic reload system that allows you to always get home safe without worrying about the amount of credit on your card. If your card gets stolen or lost, you can freeze your account online on the Rejsekort website: www.rejsekort.dk If you want to share a travel card with other people, you can get a Rejsekort Flex or Rejsekort Anonymous. You still need to register a card holder if you choose Rejsekort Flex and you also have access to Rejsekort’s online self-service, giving you the same possibilities as mentioned above but less discounts. If you choose to buy a travel card, we recommend the Rejsekort Personal, since it gives you more discounts. The card costs 50kr and can be bought online at www.rejsekort.dk where you can also compare the three types of cards and see more information about it.

If you are a student aged between 16 and 25 or a recipient of SU (student support) and you want to travel cheaper by train, you can choose to buy a DSB Ungdomskort (former Wildcard). It gives travelers up to 50% discount on train tickets, 20% discount on trips across the Øresund to Sweden, discounts in the 7-Eleven on DSB Stations, as well as the possibility to buy DSB Ungdomsbillet (youth ticket) and DSB Klapsæde-billet (folding seat ticket). The DSB Ungdomskort is valid for a whole year and it costs 125kr when you choose to have it in the digital version (if you get with the DSB App), and 150kr if you choose to have it as a plastic card (you must order it online at www.dsb.dk). This means that a trip between Copenhagen and Aarhus with 50% discount would already pay off the cost of the card. You are able to get 25% discount on international tickets with Rail Plus if you choose to order the plastic version. Note that the DSB Ungdomskort is a personal card, so always remember to carry it with your ID.

Don’t forget to check in the card in the beginning of your journey and when you change the means of transportation (for example between train and bus). Do not check out until the absolute end of your trip. You check in and out at a card reader on train stations and inside buses. 81

The Ungdomskort is also useful if you have your internship in another city. You must ask for approval at ungdomskort.dk (if you already have a youth card, log in with your NemID and select “Praktik el”).

You must first be approved for the journey between your home and your school before getting approval for the distance between your residence and the address of the internship.

The Ungdomskort (Youth Card) can be ordered if you are a student of a higher education between the ages of 16 and 25 or a recipient of SU (student support). It works as a monthly pass and it gives you :

Therefore, before applying for a “praktikkort” (internship card), you must first have a regular Ungdomskort (Youth Card). So if you are planning to order a praktikkort for your internship, you should order a regular Ungdomskort a month before, otherwise you will end up paying 615kr for a card you won’t use. Be aware that it takes about 2 weeks before you receive your praktikkort, so remember to apply for it in advance before your internship starts. Visit www.ungdomskort.dk for more information.

unlimited travel with train and bus between your home and your school, as well as your entire tariff area*. *(check map at www.ungdomskort.dk/priser). In addition, you can have up to 50% discount for trips outside or across your tariff area, both by train and regional busses. You are also able to get a 50% discount on the night bus ticket, as well. You can apply for a youth card at www.ungdomskort.dk with your NemID. If approved, you can pay for the card online. The card is valid for a period of at least 30 days and the price is 615kr (20.50kr per day), for students who started their education after the 1st of July 2016. This type of card is the cheapest option if you live outside Herning. For example, if you must cross 5 zones, you will be saving 150kr per month. 82

If you plan to travel a lot by bus for a short period of time you can buy “Travel passes”. They are tickets valid for a period (24, 48 or 72 hours) for a fixed price. You can travel as much as you want during the period you choose. It can be bought for Aarhus or all of Midtjylland area. It’s a good option when you have visitors and you want to tour other cities (within the Midtjylland area). For example, a 24 hour Travel pass for Aarhus costs 80kr and is valid for unlimited travels in the city (zone 301 – 313) on Midttrafik buses and Aarhus Nærbane (local rail line), including night buses. Be aware that if you plan to travel outside Aarhus you must buy additional tickets. The travel pass can be bought online or via the Midttrafik App. You are not able to buy this type of ticket on the bus.

The Periodekort is a personal bus pass that is valid for a fixed period (minimum one month).

You can use it to ride as many times as you want, within the zones that you pay for. It is the ACE of discount passes for VIA students that want to travel cheap around Herning by bus. Why? During the period of studies (that is, most lectures start and end in the same period of time), there is a deal for traveling outside rush hours (weekdays from 7:00 to 8:30 a.m and 3:00 to 5:00 p.m.), and you can save 25% by choosing a deltidskort (part-time periodekort) instead of a regular periodekort. The price for a deltidskort for 2 zones, valid for 1 month, is 285kr. You must remember that you won’t be able to ride buses at rush hours. On Saturdays, Sundays and Holidays, the card is valid for the whole day. A regular periodekort for the same zones and period costs 375kr and is valid for the whole day (including rush hours). You are able to buy the periodekort online at the www.midttrafik.dk. You will need a digital passport photo.

Alternatively, you can buy an Aarhus Card valid for 24 hours (129kr) or 48 hours (179k). With this card you are able to travel freely around the city using the city buses and regional buses within the zones 301-313 (Aarhus). You also can get free admission or discounts for museums/attractions and for cafés, restaurants and much more. You can buy the Aarhus card at the Aarhus Bus Station or in several places throughout Aarhus.

Be aware that since is a personal pass, you cannot share it with other people!

There are also seasonal bus and trains discounts that can be found using the Midttrafik App or using the DSB website. 83

While living in Denmark, all students are of course travelling around – to get to know the culture, for sightseeing or simply just to travel back to their home country by getting to the airport. There are a lot of ways to travel in Denmark, but just a few of these possibilities are student friendly.

hagen is located next to the DGI hotel (only 5 minutes away from the main train station). You need to use another type of transportation to get to the airport (subway, taxi etc). The tickets can be bought online at www. rødbillet.dk. Keep in mind that if you are traveling with a student discount ticket you must bring your student ID or your Ungdomskort in other to validate your ticket! The bus also offers free Wi-Fi to all passengers, so don’t worry about ever getting bored during the ride, there’s free internet!

Rødbillet is a bus company that offers cheap prices for trips around Denmark. It is one of the cheapest and easiest options if you want to visit Copenhagen since a one-way ticket can be bought for 90kr (50% off - student price). The Rødbillet bus stop is located behind the Herning train station - at Godsbanevej 1. Buses usually leave twice per day – the first one in the morning and the other in the afternoon or evening (check www.rødbillet.dk for the complete and up-to-date timetable). It's also a good option if you need to travel to the Copenhagen Airport (Kastrup). The Rødbillet bus stop in Copen84

Another cheap way to travel by bus around Denmark as well as outside the country (Norway, Sweden and Germany) is using the Line 888. The company offers several types of travelling plans and discounts that vary according to the route, how far away from the date you buy, etc.

In general, tickets labeled with discounts are divided in four categories - green, blue, yellow and red. Green tickets are the ones with the most discount while red tickets have the least discount.

If buses are not your thing, you still have the possibility to buy cheap train tickets with DSB called Orange Billet. They don't offer a huge discount (like you would get if you travel by bus), but it is still a relatively cheap way to travel. An orange ticket from the Herning Station to the Copenhagen Main Station costs 99kr (a student ticket costs around 172kr - 194kr). Keep in mind that you should look for Orange tickets in advance (up to 2 months prior your journey). The orange ticket can be bought online at the DSB website or with the DSB app. You are not able to get a student discount on the orange billet.

Keep in mind that if you have a valid student ID or youth card (ungdomskort) you have 50% discount on normal tickets from Monday to Thursday and 25% discount on holidays, major travel days (check www. abildskou.dk for more information), Saturdays and Fridays. In addition, you are also able to get up to 50% discount on labeled discounted tickets. If you plan your trip in advance, you can travel as cheap as 50kr from Herning to Copenhagen Airport (Kastrup). You can buy tickets online at abildskou.dk or using their app. You have the possibility of buying a normal ticket on the bus with cash or debit card (only Dankort), if there is an available seat. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget to bring your Student ID with you! 85

Okay, I got it, travelling by bus or train is just not for you and you have a very specific date and time interval when you want to travel. Well panic you should not my friend, we have Facebook to save the day. Maybe you want someone to pick you up from Billund and get you safely home, or maybe you want to go for a quick trip to Aarhus – you should look for traveling groups on Facebook. Just find the group you are interested in, for example, Transport Herning – Aarhus, post your wishes and keep up with the offers other people make. And maybe you will find the love of your live, just maybe.

Okay, so buses are not your thing and you can’t stand trains, but you still want to travel cheap around Denmark? Well don't fret! You can try GoMore! It is the leading ridesharing portal in Denmark, and it exists for many years. The platform allows you to travel by car much cheaper through sharing a ride with other people. To look for a ride you must first go on GoMore.dk and log in with your Facebook profile. Then you can easily look for information about everyday rides across all country. So let's say you are quite a shy person that doesn’t like to chit chat or smoke, but you love music. No worries, the platform allows you to choose your ride based on your own preferences. It is as easy as it sounds! Who knows, maybe you will even make new friends along the ride!

Well my dear student, it all depends on you. You must take into consideration how you travel (bus, train, bicycle, horse maybe?), how much you travel and where you travel.

or bike in the awful winter weather? Then maybe buying a part-time periodekort for the winter period is a good idea. Or maybe you are a last semester fashion student and you have a loved one living outside Herning and an internship in Ikast. Then you should look into ordering an ungdomskort.

Maybe you are an avid cyclist that only uses buses or trains when it's raining? Then a 10-ride klippekort is good enough for you. Maybe you are summer child freshman that despises winter with all of your soul and refuses to walk

As mentioned before, the best discount method depends entirely on you. Don't be afraid to pull that calculator out of the deep corner of your wardrobe and do some calculations of your own. Maybe you will even end up with a travelling startup company, who knows? 86

s ’ t Le

conqu er the

Wor ld!

So far, FOCUS Student Magazine has... done some sightseeing in Sc hwerin

Schwerin

Corfu

New York climbed to the Rockefeller Centtop of er in New York

enjoyed breakfast with a view in sunny Corfu. If our magazine is traveling with you...

1.capture a photo with it 2.POST IT ON INSTAGRAM 3.MARK THE LOCATION 4.tag it with #FocusAroundTheWorld ...and we’ll make sure to publish the best ones!

Tallinn changed business contacts in Tallinn

Barcelona and literally left of itself in Barc a mark elona!

Ready, steady, travel!

cool places to see in

Denmark Text by Alexandra Munteanu

Denmark is abundant in chic places that are a true source of inspiration. We have chosen 5 cool places worthy of being added to your “To Visit” list, read on and decide for yourself:

1 2

Your Rainbow Panorama

A work of art by the world-famous Danish-Icelandic Olafur Eliasson, Your Rainbow Panorama was officially opened on top of the ARoS Aarhus Art Museum in May 2011. It is a 150-meter circular walkway enclosed by panels of glass. Each panel has a different color. As a whole, it is the spectrum of the rainbow. The viewer thus experiences a spectacular panoramic walkway with fantastic, colorful perspectives of the city and the bay. Since Aarhus will be the European Cultural Capital in 2017, the city will definitely have a lot to offer. Make sure to check the Aarhus “Let’s rethink” 2017 movement as well!

Egeskov Castle

Situated in Kværndrup, this 450-year-old building is famous for being the best preserved Renaissance water castle in Europe. The Egeskov Castle was built by Frands Brockenhuus for defence purposes during the the Reformation. It stands in the middle of a lake, on a foundation of oak pilings. Surrounded by moats and enchanted gardens, the castle is home to 104 different plant species. The outside court of the castle won The Europe Garden Award in 2012. Fun fact: It contains stairs hidden in the walls and around 2,000 window panes.

3 4 5

Beach & Cliffs - Møns Klint

A delightful meeting point between the sea and the land, Møns Klint is a fascinating place, an oasis of freshness, rich in diverse rare flora and natural landscapes. Located in Borre, on the eastern coast of the Møn island in the Baltic Sea, the resort is excellent for nature lovers. Here one can discover the high hinterland, woodlands, pastures, ponds, steep hills, and the great chalk cliffs of Møn. The beach ensures a few oneof-a-kind moments, close to the sea. It is possible to rent a boat and go fishing or experience horse rides. Another attraction is The GeoCenter, a geological and natural centre, that explains in an inedite way the geological development of Denmark. Both holiday and country houses are available for renting. Otherwise, you can choose to stay at the modern campsite of Campingplads Møns Klint.

The Botanical Garden in Copenhagen

Unique and invigorating, the Botanical Garden is one of the most peaceful places in Copenhagen. It covers a huge area of 10 hectares where more than 13.000 species of plants live. The species are fascinating and really diverse: one can admire not only Danish plants in all their splendour, but also plants from mountaineous areas in Central and Southern Europe, coniferous trees and even tropical and arctic plants. Besides the walking paths, there are 27 glasshouses. The most notorious is the Palm House, which was built in 1874. There are also two cafés in the Botanical Garden, where you can stop for a nice cup of coffee or tea.The entry is free.

Tivoli Gardens

Walt Disney’s inspiration for Disneyland, Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen is the second oldest amusement park in the world. It has outlasted many other historic European theme parks and it is definitely a place where everyone has a lot of fun.

So what do you think? Which of these places would you visit during your stay in Denmark? 89

Take the test and find out which Herning habitat best suits your student lifestyle!

SCHOOL DAY IS OVER. WHAT NOW?

HOME. FOOD. HOMEWORK. DIE.

HOME. WAITING FOR MY BFF FOR DINNER, WINE & GOSSIP.

A NAP. NOW.

IT’S FRIDAY EVENING. I AM…

ALREADY ON MY SECOND BEER & SOON HEADING TO THE CITY FOR MOAR.

FRIENDS GET YOU OUT TO PARTY. EVERYBODY IS ALREADY TIPSY, EXCEPT YOU, AND IT’S GETTING LATE. YOU…

GO HOME. I’M BORED AND THEY ARE PLAYING ONE DIRECTION FOR THE THIRD TIME NOW.

CONTINUE. I’M NOT A PARTY POOPER!

YOU SURE?

FRIENDS ASK YOU OUT BUT YOU LIVE FAR AWAY FROM THE CITY CENTRE AND IT’S RAINING (SURPRISE, SURPRISE). YOU…

NO. ABSOLUTELY?

STOP IT.

STAY INSIDE. A COLD IS NOT WORTH IT.

PROFILE A

PROFILE B 90

Text by Aela Nikolova Illustrations by Olga Mangurova

IS THERE A FRIDAY BAR TODAY?

NETFLIX & CHILL.

YOU HAVE TO FINISH A BIG PROJECT BY MONDAY. DURING THE WEEKEND YOU…

PROCRASTINATE. WHAT SUNDAY EVENINGS ARE FOR ANYWAY?

WORK ALL WEEKEND. YES, I’M THAT HARDCORE.

YOU ARE OUT WITH FRIENDS. YOU HAVE BEEN HITTING ON A GUY/GIRL ALL EVENING, AND THEY SUGGEST YOU CHANGE PLACE. YOU…

GO. THE WALK OF SHAME WILL RECUPERATE YOUR GUILT LATER.

BROS BEFORE… HMMM. YES. GET A BIKE AND GO. DANISH RAIN CAN’T SCARE ME.

CAN YOU GET DRUNK FROM BEER ONLY?

NO.

PROFILE D

PROFILE C 91

Profile a Okay, we got it. Don’t need to roar from beneath that blanket every time your friends ask if you are joining for a couple of beers later - we can’t hear you anyway. Being a couch potato is totally fine and, frankly, staying inside on a Danish rainy evening, binge-watching Friends doesn’t sound bad at all. On the other hand, with spring hitting full-mode soon (we talk at least late June here because Denmark) maybe it won’t be such a bad idea to crawl out of the cave a bit! KeepPROFILE B ing up with SAA’s event list or, if you’re feeling wild, even managing a night out at Fox and You are not quite the biking-in-the-rain Hounds for example, won’t do you harm type, but going out is not a totally off-putting – you can always roll idea for you in general. You like spending some up in your blanket hygge time with friends and occasioand pretend to be nally don’t mind joining them for a beer. If there is no a burrito afrain. Or project work. Or it gets too late...Yeah. Anyway, terwards.

despite that you will make an excellent parent one day, it might do you some good to ignore the “ifs” from time to time and have fun! The perfect place for you will be joining some of the events happening on Profile c campus: SAA makes sure Birk is the place to enjoy student life, meet with friends, You are quite fabulous, aren’t you? even have a drink or two - and all We can usually find you in Baren, Fox and that not far away from home! Hounds, Old Irish or Jiggers on weekend nights, What are you waiting for? showing off your latest outfits and dancing to ‘Like a Virgin’ after midnight. You are quite the social type, but don’t like the extremes – you would rather socialize and do the Nae Nae over a couple of beers than getting wasted and Profile d ruining your new clothes. Keep the Congratulations, you’ve officially won the spirit, love, but always bear in mind title of a party animal! Pubs and bars are just a that Sunday evenings are warm-up for you – a night is not complete a mythological land, until you’ve hit Crazy Daisy properly and comprised of a magdefended your crown. The sunrise is the limit and ical time/space conthere is nothing in this world to stop you - be it weather, tinuum that exists school or friends ditching you at the last only theretically. minute. Your wild lifestyle has won you quite a reputation already, and you have probably befriended a couple of the rare bartender species around town. Keep the good work, but bear in mind that a hygge evening at home with friends on a Saturday night is equally awesome and can save you a considerable amount of headaches in the morning. 92

Design

FILOFTEIAS

Patterns

Embroidery

SKRAEDDERI

Gabriela Casian +45 5276 8044 ï¿½lofteia.skraedderi@gmail.com

Place for your notes (it is better to be prepared for future)

Most important phone numbers (and adresses for curious ones) Herning Kommune 96 28 28 28 kommunen@herning.dk Torvet 5 7400 Herning

Hospital Gl. Landevej 61, DK-7400 Herning 78 43 00 00

Police www.politi.dk Nørregade 1, 7400 Herning 96 14 14 48

Herning Library www.herningbib.dk Østergade 8, 7400 Herning 96 28 88 00

Herning Jobcenter jobcenter.herning.dk Godsbanevej 1B, 7400 Herning 96 28 50 00

Herning City www.herningcity.dk Østergade 21, 7400 Herning 96 27 22 33

This Focus issue belongs to .........................................................

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Hollingholtvej 41 Âˇ 7451 Sunds Âˇ Tlf. 97 14 14 55

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