Constance - University of Copenhagen

Bachelors of Commerce / Laws (Honours)
Semester 1, 2024
I developed the ability to speak up and put myself out there.

Personal Development 

Realised how easy it is to just reach out and make the effort with new people. I was really worried about meeting people when over there but instantly made friends from just being enthusiastic and putting myself out there. I also enjoyed being able to easily travel Europe.

Professional Development 

I developed the ability to speak up and put myself out there. The confidence to work independently in a new environment. Even though it was at times challenging being away from family and friends, it developed my ability to make independent decisions for myself - really thinking about what I want.

Budget 

Copenhagen was very expensive. I can't entirely remember how much I started with but definitely spent $15,000+. I think going to Copenhagen you have to expect to spend more than other cities. Accommodation was around 7,200 AUD but also had a hefty deposit at the beginning (which I luckily received back - a lot weren't so lucky). I used metro and bike - bike rental with a discount was $40 a month and metro was quite expensive at around $8 approx. a trip, I probably spent around $200 on metro (unsure). Food was EXTREMELY expensive when you ate out but supermarket prices were quite similar to Australia, ie, coffee was around $12 aud. I can't be sure how much I spent on food but did try to eat in most the time. Travel was my biggest expense, I went skiing in Norway which was around $1500 in itself (with ski hire stuff etc.).

I received a Global Experiences (IGE) Grant - which was VERY beneficial. I used it toward accomodation expenses.

Accommodation 

Accommodation was amazing. My room was really big, with self-contained kitchen and bathroom. Location was fantastic - so central. I was told by other previous exchange students to live there. There were shared spaces, felt super safe. Pros: have your own space, location, shared spaces and gym Cons: they are bad with move-out inspections (will try to milk any problems to get more money), not as social as some other accoms (could be isolating if you didn't make friends early on), more expensive than other options.

Advice/Top Tips

Think carefully about budget and DON'T overpack!!! I had to pay a huge amount to bring stuff back because I was overweight in luggage. Also pick a city that has a good student culture and an accessible airport if you want to travel (this was a HUGE plus about Cph).