Saturday, May 25, 2013

Getting Settled

I am finally getting settled in here in Copenhagen. I got in on wednesday May 22nd at around 10:30am. The time difference is 6 hours ahead, so to me it felt like it was actually 4:30am. As soon as we arrived in the airport, DIS was waiting there to take us to our Kolligium. Then we were given a brief tour and headed into the city to get our books. It just happened to be raining the whole time. But it wasn't too bad because everything I looked at was just so unique and beautiful. I live in Oresundskollegiet in Amger, which is just right outside the city. The commute to class is about 25 - 30 mins including all walks and the train ride. I have loved riding the train, it makes me feel part of the danish society. 

I had my first day of class the following Thursday. The day began with our summer orientation in the Trivoli Hotel, not to be confused with Trivoli the amusement park. Following the orientation we were sent off the to the DIS Copenhagen Amazing Race! We were put into groups and sent all over the city to find our way to historic sites in the city. Once there, there was a guide waiting to tell us about the history of the site. It was very informative and very fun. Then, our last stop was to go to our classrooms for the first day of class. So far, the class that I am taking has been pretty interesting and the teacher is very nice and welcoming.

Yesterday was the first day on our own and proved to be an adventure. I got lost before my class and went running all over the city. Luckily I ran into some DIS students who pointed me to the DIS main office. From there, I was given specific instructions and found my way to my building. After, I met up with my roommate and we went exploring. We ended up getting very lost and had to find our way. Getting lost twice in one day?! Thats Copenhagen for you! On the bright side, getting lost has actually been quite beneficial and helped me learn more about my surroundings. Also, I got to see some absolutely breath taking views. 

In just 3 days, I feel like I have learned so much! I can't wait for more experiences to come. 
Stay Tuned!

Haj Haj! 


Just a few pictures of the beautiful places I have visited. 




Nyhaven is absolutely amazing. The atmosphere is so welcoming and the view is beautiful.




The Royal Palace








Rosenborg Castle


Tuesday, May 14, 2013

Begin the One Week Countdown

One week from today, I will be boarding a plane to travel to Copenhagen, Denmark. I will be studying at the Danish Institute for Study Abroad (DIS), where I will be taking two psychology classes over the course of six weeks. In preparation for my journey I have been making to do lists and checking things off as I go. I don't think it has really hit me yet. I still feel like I have so much to do! 

The main stressor so far is trying to figure out what to pack. I want to pack light, but it is proving to be harder than I previously thought. From what I have read and heard from previous DIS students, Danish individuals have great fashion sense and dress up regularly. Also, it rains a lot and rain boots are not light packing friendly. 

So as I begin the countdown, I am also trying to do some last minute preparation. Although I am a bit nervous, I could not be more excited! 
Now I am off to do some shopping for travel supplies. Wish me luck!



My pre-departure packet sent from DIS