It’s been less than a week since I arrived in Copenhagen for my study abroad program at Copenhagen Business School (CBS), and I’m already starting to see just how different—and exciting—life here is compared to back home in the U.S.
CBS immediately impressed me with its sleek, modern campus and strong international presence. Students and faculty here seem incredibly collaborative, globally minded, and environmentally conscious—there’s a real emphasis on sustainability, even in the design and use of the buildings. In my class so far, the quality of the course is good, and the professor is excellent. I wish my classmates would participate more in discussions and actively engage in class. I’m not sure if it’s a language barrier that’s preventing people from participating or if it’s a matter of indifference.
The city of Copenhagen itself is clean, calm, and incredibly bike-friendly. People here really do use bikes for everything. It’s also very safe and walkable, with a blend of historical charm and modern design. Danes are polite but reserved, and while almost everyone speaks English, you can tell there’s a strong sense of national identity and pride in their culture. It’s very culturally diverse, with restaurants, people, and locations of diverse backgrounds. Everyone also dresses very well and has a unique sense of fashion, even when attending class.
Culturally, the most significant differences I’ve noticed are the work-life balance and the slower, more intentional pace of daily life. In the U.S., we tend to glorify being busy—here, there’s a greater focus on enjoying the moment, whether it’s taking a coffee break or biking along the canals.
Overall, the transition has been smooth so far, and I’m excited to dive deeper into both Danish culture and the academic experience at CBS over the next two weeks!
