Submitted by Nina Freiberger on the 2015 spring semester DIS (Denmark’s International Study Program) program in Copenhagen, Denmark…
I have been in Copenhagen for about four days now, and I already love it here! Not only is it beautiful everywhere you look, but it is so interesting to just observe the people as I go about my day. The first thing I noticed was how the whole city seems to be set up specifically for biking. Right next to the roads, there are smaller lanes intended for bikers only, with their own lights and crosswalks and everything. Seeing this after a semester at Delaware, where bikers, walkers and drivers all fight for the right of way, this is a very interesting thing to see. Another interesting thing I’ve noticed, is the general trust that is assumed throughout the city. No one comes around to check train tickets, because it is simply assumed that you have done the right thing, and purchased a ticket. I live on Long Island, and when you take the train into the city, you get your ticket checked at least two times, so this was certainly a new idea for me, to simply trust that people will do the right thing.
Also, I have noticed how helpful and friendly everyone is. I have gotten lost a number of times, and unfailingly, when I ask for directions someone will stand and help me for as long as it takes for me to find my way. This is not necessarily new, as I feel even in New York or Delaware everyone is willing to stop and help someone who is lost, but the Danes simply do it differently. They seem to genuinely want to assist you, and ensure you arrive alright, as opposed to just pointing in a general direction and going about their day. One man I asked actually pulled out his iPad for the GPS app, and stood with me explaining how to find my destination for no less than fifteen minutes. I am charmed by not only the city, but also the people who live here.
Additionally, I am living in a DRC, which is essentially my program’s version of a dorm. The RA’s have done an unbelievable job of making everyone feel welcome, and showing us around. We had a big group dinner the first night, which was lovely, and then they took us around our town, showing us the train station, the gym, Copenhagen’s soccer team’s field, and a variety of other landmarks that might be useful to us.
I start my classes tomorrow, and I am very excited to get into more of a rhythm here. After three days of orientation activities, I cannot wait to jump into my semester. I am excited to see all of what Copenhagen has to offer.