A Spasso con Elena's blog

Hi Giulia, would you like to tell us a bit about yourself and why you decided to move to Denmark for your Master’s? You can start by telling us what's the one wild story from your Italy-to-Denmark journey that still makes you laugh!

I decided to move to Denmark initially to reunite with my boyfriend, who was studying here. As someone who loves Nordic culture and after having had an experience in Iceland, I was very interested in trying to live in another Scandinavian country. I therefore decided to move and look for a Master’s programme in Denmark in order to continue my studies. My move was definitely very fun, since my boyfriend, a friend of ours, and I carried everything down from the fourth floor with no lift. We were extremely tired, but we also had fun playing Tetris with all the boxes in the rented van.

Had you already thought about moving abroad during your Bachelor’s degree? If so, what considerations did you make about not completing your university studies in Italy?

I had applied for an Erasmus exchange in Norway, in Oslo, since I was studying Norwegian. My application had been accepted, but shortly afterwards COVIDand the lockdown began.. As a result, I moved back to live with my parents and followed university classes online. I believe it would have been a wonderful experience to improve my Norwegian and to experience their culture.

Since you have experienced the academic environment both in Italy and in Denmark, would you like to tell us about the biggest differences and similarities you encountered during your experience?

There are many differences. During my bachelor’s degree in Italy, I used to study mainly shortly before the final exam. In Denmark, it is important to study throughout the course, since there are intermediate assessments, such as presentations or papers, which are mandatory in order to access the final exam. Moreover, in Denmark an important part of the classes is active participation and gruppearbejde (group work) with other students. The relationship with teachers is also completely different. In Denmark, people address each other by first name, even with professors, and students have a significant voice in the organisation of the course. Honestly, at least in my experience, I do not find many similarities, except perhaps in the structure and duration (e.g., a three-year bachelor’s degree followed by a two-year master’s degree).

Is there anything in particular that really struck you about being a student in Denmark? What's the quirkiest class or project you tackled that you'd never have tried back in Italy—and did it change how you see your field?

For a course on research methods, we had to decide as a group on our research case, in my case, migrant mothers in Copenhagen. I found it a wonderful experience because, for the first time, I had to overcome my fears and conduct interviews. At least during my bachelor’s degree in languages in Italy, I never had to be so “active” in a course. It definitely taught me to become proactive and independent in research and study, because even though we had the support of the professor, it was us students who were in charge of the entire project.

What was your typical day like for you as a Master’s student in Denmark? Were you used to bike to class in the rain or something this epic?

As a student, I loved going to campus. I once tried cycling there in the summer, but after arriving sweaty 25 minutes later, I decided that would also be the last time. I usually reached my campus in about 20 minutes by metro. The best part was having lunch at the outdoor tables, if the weather allowed, or by the canal, having coffee on one of the many couches in the numerous student bars, and attending communal dinners where we could try different international cuisines (I think every Thursday evening).

What are the limits – if any – of studying for a Master’s in Denmark?

For those coming from an EU country, studying a master’s degree in Denmark is free. Unfortunately, this is not the case for students from outside the EU. Moreover, it can be challenging, as it was for me, to understand what was expected by the professors (e.g., active participation in class). It is not easy to get used to a completely different study approach. In addition, most master’s programmes in the humanities are offered only in Danish, so the choice of master’s programmes in English is definitely limited.

Would you do it all again in a heartbeat?

I think so, but I might choose a different type of master’s degree, and I would go for one more in the social sciences or political sciences, since I believe there are greater job opportunities in those fields.

What are your recommendations to others wishing to enroll in a university course in Denmark?

It’s a great opportunity, especially for those coming from an EU country. In addition, if you work 10–12 hours a week during your studies, it is possible to receive a scholarship called the SU of around 800 euros per month ( 2024–25), which is very helpful. I would also definitely recommend actively participating in class, going to fredagsbar, and enjoying the common spaces.

Any secret student perks or social quirks you feel like sharing with us?

Fredagsbar—Friday bars—are always a super fun experience. Especially when you’ve just arrived, they’re a great opportunity to meet new students, both international and Danish, at the university’s fredagsbar. Additionally, KU organizes a festival every year towards the beginning of summer, with music and food. It’s a wonderful experience. If you’re at the South Campus, make sure to visit Helga Bar at least once, and if the weather is nice, go up to the terrace right across from it. You can sit there, study, and enjoy your coffee with a beautiful view of Copenhagen.