Denmark: Kaitlyn Fox
Program: UW Cancer Care Across Cultures in Denmark, Winter Intersession
Major: Molecular and Cell Biology
How were your program academics similar or different from taking classes at UW-Madison?
The academic structure of my study abroad program was similar to many classes at UW–Madison. Most sessions were lecture-based, but instructors also encouraged student participation through discussions, questions, and group conversations. One difference was that the teaching style varied depending on the instructor and often incorporated site visits and experiential learning opportunities that connected classroom concepts to real-world healthcare settings. This allowed me to see firsthand how the topics we discussed in class were applied in practice. Overall, the program combined familiar academic expectations with unique learning experiences that broadened my understanding of healthcare and cancer care.
What is your most memorable experience from your program?
My most memorable experience was visiting the radiology department. Throughout the program, we spent a great deal of time learning about the science behind cancer and the biological processes involved in diagnosis and treatment. However, the radiology visit shifted my perspective from the disease itself to the patient experience. During the tour, the staff helped us understand what it feels like to be a patient undergoing imaging procedures and the vulnerability that comes with navigating a cancer diagnosis. It reminded me that every scan, test result, and treatment plan represents a real person with their own fears, hopes, and story. The experience reinforced the importance of empathy in healthcare and taught me that patients are much more than statistics or diagnoses.
What is the moment you are most proud of?
The moment I am most proud of was realizing I could successfully navigate a foreign country on my own. Before studying abroad, I had never traveled internationally without my parents. During my time in Denmark, I explored parts of the country independently, navigated unfamiliar environments, and learned to be comfortable doing things on my own, even something as simple as going out to dinner by myself. It taught me confidence, adaptability, and independence, and showed me that I am capable of much more than I previously thought.
As someone interested in healthcare, I will carry forward the lesson that patients are more than diagnoses or statistics.
What did you learn about yourself or the world because of your experience?
One of the most important things I learned is that what feels “normal” is often shaped by culture and is not universal. Before studying abroad, I tended to view many aspects of American society as standard, but my experience in Denmark challenged that assumption. I was particularly struck by the high level of social trust in Denmark. Many people expressed strong trust in their government, healthcare system, and public institutions. This trust contributed to higher rates of compliance with public health recommendations and greater acceptance of vaccinations. At the same time, I learned that every system has strengths and weaknesses. This taught me that understanding another culture requires looking beyond simple judgments of whether something is “better” or “worse” and instead appreciating the complex tradeoffs that exist in every society.
How will your experience benefit you in the future? How might it affect your future career or studies?
My study abroad experience will benefit me both academically and professionally. Learning about Denmark’s healthcare system broadened my perspective on how different societies approach healthcare and public health. The experience also helped me develop greater independence, adaptability, and cultural awareness. Visiting healthcare facilities, particularly the radiology department, reinforced the importance of empathy and patient-centered care. These experiences will influence both my future studies and my approach to caring for patients throughout my healthcare career.
How did your identities impact your experience? What advice would you give to students with similar identities who are considering a similar experience?
As a woman, my identity influenced how I experienced Denmark, particularly in regard to safety. Before traveling abroad, I was somewhat concerned about navigating a new country on my own. However, I was pleasantly surprised by how safe I felt while using public transportation, exploring cities, and spending time independently.
My advice to other women considering a similar experience is not to let fear prevent them from studying abroad. While it is always important to take appropriate precautions and research your destination, studying abroad can be an incredibly empowering experience. It helped me build confidence, independence, and trust in my ability to navigate unfamiliar situations.
What is your advice for someone considering your program?
My advice is to keep an open mind and take advantage of every opportunity. Be willing to ask questions, engage with the instructors, and learn from cultural differences rather than comparing everything to home. I would also encourage students to explore outside of the scheduled program activities, as some of my most memorable experiences came from independently experiencing Danish culture and daily life. The program goes by quickly, so make the most of every experience and don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone.