University of Wisconsin–Madison

Denmark and Sweden: Kayleigh Zank

Program: DIS – Study Abroad in Scandinavia, Summer

Kayleigh’s Major: Genetics and Genomics, Global Health

How will your experience benefit you in the future? 

My experience studying healthcare systems and public health policy in Denmark and Sweden will be valuable in my future career in public health. I learned a lot about different healthcare systems as well as different frameworks to think about health policy that will help me both in graduate school and as a public health professional.

Kayleigh smiles in front of a colorful row of houses in front of a canal that is lined with boats.
The famous Nyhavn district of Copenhagen, Denmark known for its canals, restaurants, and colorful buildings dating from the 17th and 18th centuries.

What is your advice for someone considering your program? 

If you have any sort of housing preference, it doesn’t hurt to include it in your application. I didn’t include much in mine, but I met several people who included some preferences, and DIS often accommodated them. This is especially true if you have a preference to live in more of a suite or apartment style housing vs a more dorm-like or studio with one other roommate or vice versa.

What is a custom, food or tradition from your host country that you are taking forward?

One custom I plan on taking forward is the Danish concept of hygge. While it doesn’t really have a direct English translation, it generally means coziness, being content, conviviality, well-being, and relaxing in a low key or quiet way. I really enjoyed thinking about life in this way and taking time away from a busy schedule to intentionally relax.