Denmark: Brenna Braun (A home away from home in Copenhagen)

October 9, 2023

Planning my study abroad experience and then actually doing it was like a shock to the system. For so long I had imagined what a day would look like in Copenhagen, yet immediately upon arriving, I was completely lost. Everything and everyone in the city were so new to me that I realized how difficult this experience may be. Luckily, this feeling would not last very long, mostly thanks to my decision to take the pre-semester course offered by Copenhagen University. Through the Danish language section of the course, I could learn simple Danish words as well as get suggestions for where to visit in the city.

Two people pose on a wooden pier next to a river with glass buildings in the background. — My friend, Bea, and I swimming in the canal in Islands Brygge.

Additionally, I met so many other amazing international students going through the same exact things I was, and we all quickly became good friends. Through the friendships I was developing, I began to appreciate the little things in my daily life in Copenhagen. Now, after being here a week, I look forward to my daily 30-minute bike ride to campus and I use it to admire the beautiful baroque architecture of the city. This is especially true as I bike along the lakes of Copenhagen and through the city center’s historical buildings and little shops. More so, I love exploring the different cafes and bakeries and being able to feast on the copious amounts of delicious pastries every day! (My personal recommendations are Wulff&Konstali, Roast Coffee, and Andersen and Maillard) In addition, arguably my favorite part of the day, is sitting by the canal or lakes with my friends and talking about the beauty of Denmark and our lives. Overall, all these simple things that have become a part of my daily life have made Copenhagen my home away from home.

Brenna smiles in front of a glass door with dark wood trim.

Brenna Braun

Hometown: Manitowoc, Wisconsin

Major: Biology & Global Health

Program: University of Copenhagen Exchange

Before applying to my program, I knew that I wanted to graduate in four years having completed both of my majors. Consequently, I was immediately drawn to the University of Copenhagen program as it would not force me to add another year of study. More so, by choosing this program, I would be provided the opportunity to take STEM-based courses that would both challenge and interest me while also experiencing life in Copenhagen.

I was always very drawn to studying in Copenhagen as my family on my maternal side almost wholly hail from Denmark. As a result, I am extremely excited to become immersed in and learn about the culture and language of the Danish people. From this experience, I hope to improve my connection with my heritage while also obtaining new life experiences for myself!