Denmark: Emily Johnson (We’re Not in Madison Anymore)

We’re Not in Madison Anymore – Copenhagen and Stockholm

One of the first things that hit me was Scandinavia’s culture of leisure. In Stockholm, it’s called Fika. In Copenhagen, it’s called Hygge. Yes, they are two separate things; yet, they both have an underlying message of relaxation. “Be present, no phones. Eat a kardemummabullar with your friend. Take a stroll by the canal at sunset.” As a US college student, I am constantly on the go. I always have things to do whether it’s homework, my job, or one of my clubs. To relieve that stress, I might do that work in a pretty cafe. However, in Stockholm, you can’t. There were plenty of signs outside of those places saying, “No phones after 14:00.” It was Fika time. Additionally, those stores might close at 6:00 pm. I found out quickly if I wanted to do anything fun after class, I always had to do it right after. I found it frustrating.

But I also reminded myself of the benefits of it. I’m pretty sure we’ve all heard of the constant headlines that Americans are working too much. That we are constantly on our phones and it’s rotting our brains. Or how we are more lonely than ever. But we never do anything about it. Here in Scandinavia, they are. They want to get rid of the toxins of the 21st century and let people enjoy themselves. They dedicate time to leisure and being present with family and friends.

Out of the many things I loved about their culture, this was the superior one. I wish that America had a culture rule like this. There is a reason for Scandinavian happiness and this is one of them. Do you know how much happier we would be? Maybe UW should do something like this. Every day from three to five pm, students aren’t allowed to do any homework. Instead of Fika or Hygge, we would call it “Terrace Time.” We would drink lemonade by the lake, play some card games, and throw a frisbee here and there. No phones allowed, obviously.

Emily Johnson

Major: History, Environmental Studies

Hometown: Wausau, Wisconsin

Program: DIS – Study Abroad in Scandinavia in Copenhagen

Being a Global Gateway Fellow means a lot! Not only will I receive financial and academic support, I will also get to share my experience to future study abroad participants. One personal goal I have is to learn about my heritage. I have ancestry in Denmark and hope to explore the cities they grew up in.

I most look forward to learning about Copenhagen and Stockholm sustainability. These countries have been renowned for their leadership in the initiative, and I hope to apply their knowledge in my future career as a sustainability educator.