Planes, Pastries, and Pillow Fights: My First Week Abroad

From Boston to Copenhagen

After a 2 hour car ride from Southern Rhode Island, my parents and I arrived at Boston Logan International Airport. Although excited, the dread of having to say goodbye loomed over me. Not only would I be thousands of miles from close family and friends, but I would also have to adjust to city life. Growing up in rural New England, I never imagined myself living in a city. I find so much comfort in the small-town feel of UNH, my home campus, with it's brick buildings and nature trails that extend for miles. However, the opportunity to learn from one of the happiest countries in the world motivated me to push my comfort zone.

After saying goodbye to my parents and making my way through security, I felt reality wash over me. Studying in Copenhagen was no longer just a dream, it was actually happening. I was only a 7 hour flight away from meeting my host family and experiencing the Danish way of life. As I approached my gate, it became apparent that the majority of the flight would be made up of DIS students. Before arriving in Copenhagen, I already had the opportunity to meet so many new people!

After a smooth flight, we landed at Copenhagen Airport! We were excitedly greeted by DIS staff who helped us navigate our way out of the airport. I jumped into a taxi provided by DIS and was finally on my way to meet my host family!

First Week Reflections

Between the jet lag, classes, learning public transportation, and the plethora of events hosted by DIS, this first week has been a whirlwind! It feels like a month has already gone by and I am constantly reminding myself that I am still adjusting and have plenty of time ahead of me to explore the city.

In just one week, I have gone on a canal tour organized by DIS, visited the colorful buildings of Nyhavn, attended a student mixer event at Den Blå Planet (Denmark's national aquarium), joined a rock climbing gym, seen the royal guard march through the streets of Nørreport, enjoyed fresh pastries at Hart Bakery, and so much more! Needless to say, there is no shortage of things to do in Copenhagen and I still have so many more places to see and explore!

While the cobblestone streets and colorful buildings are beautiful and DIS has hosted some great events, my favorite moments have been spending time with my host family. In addition to my roommate and I, the house is home to a family of six, with four kids ranging from 6 months to 9 years old. With eight people under one roof, there is never a dull moment!

Every night, family dinners are always full of delicious food and laughter. So far, my favorite meal has been Medisterpølse and Flødekartofler, Scandinavian sausage and creamy potatoes! Since my host siblings don't speak much English, moments after dinner usually involve learning some Danish through playing games with the family. Their favorite game is a pudekamp. This involves screeching laughter as my host siblings attack my roommate and I with lots of pillows! We quickly picked up that "pudekamp" is Danish for pillow fight!

Being involved in such a fun, loving and hyggeligt (cozy) homestay environment has made the transition seem nearly seamless. Although I am missing friends and family and the peacefulness of New Hampshire nature, each day is full of so much joy and gratitude for such a unique experience. I am so excited to continue getting to know my new family, exploring everything Copenhagen has to offer, and continuing to improve my Danish!

Until next time, vi ses!