Why did you choose this program? I chose DIS Copenhagen because they offered the most hands-on, specialized program for what I wanted to study: sustainable development. All of my classes had field study components to them, which I thought was a pretty unique aspect to this program. Furthermore, for your core course you get two trips with your class included in the program cost where you go on tours around Denmark and to other foreign countries where you spend the entire time visiting (in my case) environmental officials, attending lectures, participating in discussions.

Describe your favorite class(es) abroad. I really enjoyed my environmental policy class. We got to do a lot of simulations and negotiations to make our class materials as realistic as possible, and to understand how hard it can be to create and change policy. We debated in Danish Parliament, visited an offshore wind farm, and designed campaign strategies. For the negotiations and simulations we would be given a problem/issue and assigned roles. Then, we would go through the scenario as if it was real. I definitely learned a lot about effective communication, negotiation, and policy and campaign development. Furthermore, I was able to develop better international policy relations and further developed my ability to consider issues from different perspectives.

What was the housing like on your study abroad program? I lived with a host family. At first it was a little strange; we weren't exactly sure how to talk to each other or how to interact with each other. But, after a month or so I was able to develop a very good relationship with my host parents. We shared a lot of great conversations, and they took me on some wonderful day trips. We also enjoyed the funny discrepancies in our cultures. My house and room were very nice. I would not trade this experience for anything. It was nothing short of "hyggeligt"!

What advice would you like to give to future study abroad students? Don't be afraid of new experiences or doing things alone (you will make some AMAZING friends along the way). Take every opportunity offered to you- who knows when you'll get this type of opportunity again? Be open to new people and places, and try not to compare everything to home.