I chose to study abroad over the summer after my sophomore year with the Danish Institute for Study Abroad (DIS) in Copenhagen. This experience gave me the opportunity to meet people from varying backgrounds, explore the ins and outs of Copenhagen, travel and learn about new places.
The study abroad experience differs for every person but always allows students to grow, meet new people, engage in exploration and try new activities. Students are able to explore their interests and travel to unfamiliar places with a unique perspective. For a large number of students, 937 during the 2023-24 academic year, studying abroad takes up at least a month of their Vanderbilt experience. Though the spring semester is the most popular study abroad opportunity, a good amount of students go during the fall, summer or for a Maymester.
Copenhagen
For my study abroad experience, I chose to complete two sessions of the DIS summer program in Copenhagen. During these two months, I learned so much about the city of Copenhagen and Danish culture. I loved navigating the Metro, trying new bakeries and exploring all Copenhagen has to offer.
A highlight of my time in Copenhagen was laying out and relaxing in the Frederiksberg Gardens. The Frederiksberg Gardens has spacious green lawns, trees, restaurants, flowers, waterfalls, a river and a spot to view the Copenhagen Zoo. This park is the perfect location to host picnics, run or walk around. Out of all the times I went to the Frederiksberg Gardens, the summer solstice was by far the best. I loved celebrating Midsummer with my new friends in such a beautiful place. Furthermore, I was able to gain valuable insight into how the Danish perspective differs from the United States. My classes had discussions concerning what happiness, work-life balance and community look like in the Danish context.
Greater Denmark
I had the fortunate opportunity to travel to other destinations in Denmark, as well. I took day trips by train to many places, including Mons Klint, Odense, Humlebaek, Hillerød and Malmo, Sweden. Traveling to visit the Frederiksborg Castle was a highlight of my time in Copenhagen.
Helsinki
The DIS summer program has a unique aspect where students go on a week-long study tour for the second session. My study tour went to Helsinki, Finland. We learned about what the education system looks like in the Nordic countries, with a particular focus on Denmark and Finland. Throughout our study tour, we engaged in activities, discussions and visited sites in relation to our course. I saw Helsinki’s Central Library which is fully funded by the Helsinki and Finnish government. The project was estimated to cost 98 million euros, demonstrating Finland’s commitment to education, accessibility and its citizens. The Oodi Library offers free services to adults, families and children, as well as access to countless resources including 3D printing, gaming and music equipment. Additionally, we journeyed one day outside of Helsinki to Espoo and spent time out in nature. This day in Helsinki was my favorite part of my study abroad experience. It was magical and unforgettable.
Italy
After the program ended, my mom and I traveled to Italy and Switzerland. We visited Florence, Tuscany and Lake Como. I absolutely loved visiting Italy and capturing the beauty of the city of Florence and the gorgeous water in Lake Como.
My favorite part of the trip was Tuscany, filled with beautiful quaint towns. In particular, I loved Siena and Pienza. The small cobblestone streets brought me a sense of calmness. Of course, the food and wine were exquisite. We experienced the best of what Italy has to offer.
Switzerland
My last stops in Europe were Zermatt and Geneva, Switzerland. The scenery was absolutely beautiful, with mountains, lakes and greenery all around. We went hiking and spent lots of time outside in nature. While we got soaked from the rain on our hike of five lakes, it was so much fun and an experience I’ll always remember. I cannot wait for the next opportunity to travel back to Switzerland.
