This encouragement, coupled with popular statistics about how happy the people are and how livable the city is, made me want to see for myself how the country compared to the United States. I’ve come to learn that many of these aspects hold true, especially since I tend to give the same reasons when someone asks me how I like studying here. A majority of the pictures I’ve taken are related to food, the intricate architecture inside and outside of buildings or sunsets along the water. Coming from the suburbs in the Midwest, it’s been such a nice change living in a bustling city with rich history and beautiful waterfronts.
Even so, I’ve had the chance to learn some of the language (Danish) and the more complicated aspects of the country, such as the flaws of the welfare system and feelings towards immigration. If I was simply visiting for a few days and stuck to doing more tourist-centered activities, then I wouldn’t have learned so much about the people and system that make Denmark what it is. That is one of the primary reasons I’m so grateful that I could study abroad here! People are willing to answer my questions and have conversations about Danish culture in comparison to the United States and other countries. No country is perfect and there is so much everyone can learn from each other. I know I will bring back the habit of taking life at a slower and more relaxed pace and search for Danish pastries back home as reminders of Denmark. I will truly miss this place and already look forward to coming back in the future.
If you ever have the opportunity to explore a new place, please take it! You will learn about and experience new cultures and hear unique stories that you wouldn’t otherwise.
