As part of my studies at PH Graz with a focus on German as a Foreign/second language (DaF/DaZ), I had the great opportunity to spend my 5th semester at KP University in Copenhagen, Denmark. After completing all formalities and the joy of securing a spot in a large student housing, my journey and semester in Copenhagen began.

The winter semester in Copenhagen already started in the middle of August and lasted until Christmas. This gave me the chance to experience Copenhagen from late summer to winter. I arrived by train a few days before welcome week at my university to settle in. The welcome week was filled with many activities, including a campus tour, introductions to the teachers, group activities to get to know other students, and a boat tour to explore Copenhagen. From the very first day, everyone was very open and welcoming. Everything was well organized, and I felt welcomed and integrated in many ways as a newcomer.

The KP University is incredibly modern and well-equipped, especially for teaching students. The facilities include great classrooms with big windows and a water dispenser, making studying and attending classes convenient. The university also has a fantastic canteen that offers a buffet with mostly vegetarian options for affordable prices. The campus itself is stunning, with a modern design and numerous chill and sitting areas to hang out or work on assignments in between classes. There are also study cafes with affordable coffee, creating a welcoming environment for both academic and social activities.

I was able to register for my selected courses well in advance. The course offerings seemed diverse and exciting. I attended three courses (Arts and Crafts, Physical Activity in everyday teaching and an international practicum), each worth 10 ECTS, with a schedule of three to four days a week. On two days, I went to a Danish school and did an international practicum, which gave me great insight in the Danish school and teaching system. The courses were diverse and engaging, with open and kind teachers who encouraged lots of group work.

In the Arts and crafts course, we designed, developed and presented our ideal school in groups to create the best possible learning environment for both teachers and students. Additionally, we went on numerous trips to museums, an “outdoor school”, and other places, which greatly inspired me. The outdoor school was impressive for me, where students engage hands-on learning outside the traditional classroom setting.

During the international practicum, I had the opportunity to teach at a Danish school alongside two other students. I taught students in grades 4, 7 and 9, which presented both challenges and learning opportunities. The Danish approach to education is very student-centered, focusing on collaboration and creativity.

The international practicum and diverse group work helped me develop skills in cross-cultural communication, teamwork, and innovative teaching methods. I gained insights into the Danish education system, which emphasizes collaboration, student engagement, and creativity—things I might not have experienced in my home country. It was a new experience to see a class teaching arts in Danish. The kids were already really good in English, but we also communicated with hands and feet.

The Physical Activities in Everyday Teaching course introduced various strategies for integrating movement into daily lessons. We also once visited a Swedish school, where we could try out our planned activities with students.

The university also offered a Danish language course, which I attended. It helped me understand more Danish during the semester and pick up simple phrases to order a coffee or asking simple questions.

Accommodation
Finding accommodation on your own in Copenhagen would have been quite difficult. I contacted the university, and they helped me finding a place. The student accommodation had lots of shared kitchens, common rooms, amazing facilities such as a gym, yoga rooms, and even a cinema room. Although it was located a bit outside of the center, it was very easy to get around by s-train. Many of my colleagues lived there as well, so a lot took place in this student housing. I believe that staying in student housing provided me with countless opportunities for social interaction and a deeper immersion into the city that I might not have experienced otherwise.

The City
Copenhagen is a beautiful city by the water, with many cute cafes and plenty of activities. You can swim in the sea, stroll through the city, or explore places by bike. To get around at the beginning of my stay, I used the DSB app, where you simply check in and out every time you are using public transport, which was cheaper than the other options. Later, when I got my Danish residency, I applied for a youth card, which made transportation even easier. I also rented a bike through Swapfiets, a cheap and convenient option that costs around €24 per month.

Experiencing Copenhagen over five months allowed me to fully absorb the “spirit” of the city. Copenhagen is undoubtedly a leader in innovation, modern architecture, ecology, and an outstanding mobility concept.  The city promotes participatory urban development, offering free outdoor social spaces like public swimming areas in the city center and waterfront seating areas. The dynamic atmosphere of this city is truly inspiring!

Must-Visit Places

• Reffen streetfood market: a great place especially in summer, with live music, view to the sea, lots of international food, …
• Folkehuset apsalon: this is a great place to get to know new people, visit pilates, yoga, dance or other classes, study, eat dinner in a great community, …
• Tivoli Gardens
• Countless Cafes, amazing Museums (Design Museum, architecture Museum, etc.), and beautiful parks.

I definitely think that the stay abroad will be beneficial for my future work as a teacher. It expanded my perspective on teaching and learning. Observing and participating in the Danish education system gave me many ideas on how to create engaging and inclusive classroom environments. It gave me many new teaching ideas, ways of teaching, gave me new perspectives on the teaching personality, …

Living and studying in Copenhagen made me more independent, adaptable, and open-minded. The experience of living in a new city, meeting people from different backgrounds, and adjusting to a new culture helped me grow personally. It also enhanced my confidence in taking on new challenges and speaking different languages.

With great gratitude and countless new experiences, I look back on this unforgettable semester in Copenhagen.

Arami Tendis