University of Wisconsin–Madison

Denmark: Nasra Hassen

A group of students sit at a long table
This was the day we went on a food tour and in this picture specifically we were at a new restaurants that fused traditional Lebanese and Danish cooking styles.

Program: Global Gateway Denmark, Summer

Nasra’s Major: Legal Studies

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

The biggest difference between the classes that I took at the UW-Madison and the class I took through my study abroad program is the structure. With UW-Madison classes, whilst the topic we were talking about changed it was all held in the same classroom everyday. However, my programs class was not always in the building. For example, if we talked about a certain event in class one day the next day we would take a trip to that site and that is where class would be held. Or there would be times where we wouldn’t meet in class but instead a designated location and talk about the significance of that place and how it relates to what we are learning.

This style of learning was much more interactive than the usual classes here at UW-Madison and also it became a way for us to explore the country.

What is your most memorable experience from your program?

A group of students pose for a selfie in front of a garden.
This was our trip to Frederikborg palace which you can see in the background. Although this day was gloomy it was still a beautiful trip where we got to explore the palace but also the amazing gardens.

There were a lot of memorable moments from my program in Denmark. From the trips we took to see some of Denmark’s historical castles to the guided tours of the city and learning about the events that took place where we were that had a tremendous affect on the country. But by far my most memorable experience was going to Freetown Christiania. Christiania was my most memorable experience because of all that it had to offer from its markets, to the performers, and beautiful art decorating the buildings. But also it had amazing history it was a place where people called home and got to be and express their true self.

How did your identities impact your experience? What advice would you give to students with similar identities who are considering a similar experience?

My experience in Denmark is one I will always cherish and was overall an amazing experience. However, it was a shock for me when I would look around the city and only see a handful of people who looked like me especially coming from a diverse community. This experience was one of the reasons I was a little hesitant about joining the program but I did not let this deter me from creating great memories. And this should not stop you from putting yourself out there and making amazing experiences, relationships and fulfilling your goals. My biggest advice is to try and make your own community a space that makes you feel safe and comfortable and you can be your most authentic self.