An Eternal Student’s Paradise

Yesterday was our first day of classes here in Copenhagen, a reality that some conveniently forget is an integral part of a ‘study’ abroad semester. I, however, have been looking forward to the classes I’d be taking here ever since discovering this program. I welcomed the eager excitement I often experience when packing my bag and allowed my self to wonder about the interesting professors I’d soon be exposed to who would help shape my experience here in Denmark. From class one, European Storytelling, to my final class, Danish Language and Culture, I found myself sitting in awe and bewilderment that I’d get to hear from some of the most distinguished members in their fields multiple times a week. Professors here are adjunct professors. Most of them are not typically teachers by profession but instead active members in their respective fields outside of academia.  They stress the applicability of theory, seeming thus far to artfully blend ideas and practice. It’s much different than what I am use to at Villanova, as most of my Liberal Arts classes are based in books, reading, and writing. This change of pace is sure to be both refreshing and helpful, and I keep patting myself on the back for making the decision to apply to this program. I was most surprised by my Creative Travel Writing professor, Lisa Abend, who is a European Correspondant for TIme Magazine. She has also been published in the New York Times, Food and Wine, and National Geographic Traveler, a resume that speaks for itself. I practically fell over in my seat when she gave us a detailed introduction, only after having us critique one of her published pieces without being aware it was hers. Those who know me well know that I must have died and reached heaven. For those who don’t, this is probably how I would describe a dream course. I’m feeling pretty lucky,  a feeling I am sure will stick around for a while.

Love at First Sight

I am finally here, writing this very post from my adorable flat style apartment situated in the southern outskirts of Copenhagen, Denmark. The past few days have been filled with lots of new faces and eager introductions, “where are you froms?”  and “oh! do you know so and so’s…” My plane alone had about 20 DIS students on it. We all met for the first time as we arrived  at the proper terminal, slowly getting up the nerve to introduce ourselves and then consequently filling the plane with excited chatter. Everyone thus far has been so friendly and smiley. We may be Americans but it seems we have already caught the happy Denmark fever.  Today we participated in an event they called “The Amazing Race” which was a scavenger hunt of sorts that required us to navigate the windy city of Copenhagen as we simultaneously took in some of the most iconic sights. With each turn I found myself admiring something new, whether it be the bright colorful buildings that cut the grey sky, the winding cobblestone streets that guarantee an element of surprise as you cannot see directly down them, or the simple-chic style of the Danes that some how accomplish looking fresh and modern even in this cold weather. All that I can really complain about are the impossibly small sizes of to-go coffee cups here and our shower pressure that really is more like bathing in a water fountain. Everything else has been nothing short from amazing and its only day two! More to come, friends. For now, here are just a few photos of our excursion today.

Departure

And I’m off! Officially on my way to the airport entertaining that anxiety-inducing feeling that I most definitely forgot something at home. Realistically, all that I left behind was my loving family and their overwhelming sense of excitement for me. I will miss them everyday (every other day for you, Miss.) Make sure you all annoyingly hound Mom until she books the trip for April! And to my winter wonderland of a home, I’ll see you in 4 months!

Preparation

With just four short days until the start of my journey abroad, my time has been filled with tackling to-do lists and constant anticipation. It seems that I still have a plethora of things to get done before I leave, but I have finally accepted that I will never feel truly ready. There’s no way to be completely prepared. Instead of worrying about what could possibly go wrong, I am focusing on being excited about all that can go right. I’ve also carved away some time in my preparation schedule to get some much needed practice with my Copenhagen-inspired birthday present, a brand new camera. While I’ve never been the most talented artist, I am determined to capture the best of Europe in images, even if it may be at an amateur level.

Two Weeks

Vorfreude: (n.) the joyful, intense anticipation that comes from imagining future pleasures

In just two short weeks I will be traveling to the snowy city of Copenhagen, a reality that even now does not seem possible. It’s been a long time coming, with abroad plans changing left and right. It took me some time to decide on the northern Scandinavian city. However, now that the decision has been made, it seems laughable to imagine myself anywhere else. In true serendipitous fashion, unexpected signs continue to pop up ensuring me that I have made the right choice. A small country that I could not even point to on a map now holds the promise of an experience I will remember and treasure for a lifetime. While nerves begin to creep in as each day passes, that feeling is quickly pushed aside by the overwhelming sense of excitement I have every time I catch myself day dreaming about Copenhagen. Ironically, I sometimes experience a fleeting sense of sadness. I am all too aware that at some point this excitement, and trip, will be over. With the acute understanding that this is a once in a lifetime opportunity, I have saught out the advice of friends returning from a fall semester abroad to insure that I make the most of every moment I spend in Denmark. I have narrowed it down to the following five:

1. Say yes to everything. Even if you’re tired, or hesitant, say yes.
2. Befriend the locals. Befriend the Americans. Befriend everyone.
3. Travel often and travel well.
4. Get lost.
5. Appreciate everyday. It ends far too quickly.

I plan to take these with me, keeping them in mind always. For now, though, I will focus on spending time with my family and friends. Especially my Mom and Dad, for without them all of this would not be possible.  Also, begin to strategize how to fit 4 months of clothing into two suitcases…