Denmark: Phoebe Schwartz

January 11, 2023

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 Exchange, 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.