Denmark: Phoebe Schwartz

Two people tread water near red and white buoys near a coastline with several glass buildings.
This is a photo of my friend, Nina, and I swimming in the canal in September when it was still warm outside. The water was very cold regardless.

Program: University of Copenhagen, Fall

Phoebe’s Major: Computer Science, Environmental Studies

What did you learn about yourself or the world because of your experience?

When you’re in a brand new place and you don’t know anyone, it’s easy to connect to others who are also in the same position. Everyone I met who was also studying abroad was in the same position as me. We all wanted to make new friends and explore the city. It was a great connection to other people that made it easy to make new friendships.

I liked having a group of friends from all over the world.

How will your experience benefit you in the future? How might it affect your future career or studies?

I really enjoyed my experience abroad. I can see myself working and studying abroad again in the future.

Two people smile, holding up a cup of ice cream, while on a boat going through a canal between two rows of brightly colored, narrow houses.
A photo of my friend, Clemence, and I on a boat tour of the city. We are pictured in the very famous Nyhavn.

How were your program academics similar or different from taking classes at UW–Madison?

Classes at UCPH met less often than classes at UW. Some of my classes only met once or twice a week for 2-3 hours. The exams for these courses were also quite different than at Madison. I only had one exam per class that counted 100% for my final grade. It was a lot less stressful throughout the semester as I only needed to pay attention in class and I didn’t have busywork assigned. I also experienced different types of final exams: written, oral, which were a nice change.