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