I am an exchange student from Brisbane, Australia, studying at Aarhus University in Denmark. I chose to study abroad as I wanted to meet new people and experience living in a different country and culture. I saw it as an opportunity to broaden my horizons, step out of my comfort zone and gain new perspectives about the world. I always found living in the same place to be limiting and I wanted to take the opportunity to leave my home city whilst I am young.<\/p>\n
So, a normal day on exchange can vary. I\u2019ll spend days attending class, catching up with other international students or local Danes, and then head into town with new friends to explore the city. I am lucky to live with other Danish people, so I will cook dinner with them, chat in the kitchen, go out for a drink or even just watch a movie \u2013 I really get to see what life is like for a student in Denmark. There are other days where I am packing to go on a trip with said new friends, or checking cheap flights to organise where I should go with said new friends.<\/p>\n
I think Denmark is a prime spot go on exchange (obviously I am bias) because student life is such a big part of their culture. The actual city is so beautiful, and surrounding areas are too, so it makes for a great place to spend your days. I think the best thing about Denmark in particular is how progressive the country actually is \u2013 you learn about their sustainability initiatives, social policies and their overall approach to community. You get to see how well their society functions and it makes me want to move here!<\/p>\n
Something that I was told prior to my exchange in Denmark was that everything would be expensive. Although I would say it is expensive here, there are so may avenues you can take to live cheaply. I go to discount grocery stores; the housing is student accommodating and I take advantage of free events. There are always cheaper ways if you research enough.<\/p>\n
One piece of advice I wish I had received before I went on exchange would be to understand the administration required. It\u2019s a lot of work to go on exchange, I think Aarhus University does a lot of the work for you regarding subjects and accommodation but getting your visa takes time, organising travel options and managing things like your resident permit. Obviously, it is all worth it as it has been the best year of my life so far.<\/p>\n
My advice to any other exchange students would be to have the best time! Take every opportunity you can and enjoy each moment. I also think it\u2019s important to find a balance between travelling and just existing in Denmark. You have your whole life to travel but you might only be studying in a different country once.<\/p>\n