A new life in Denmark

Unique Viernes says going on a student exchange to the Danish School of Media and Journalism in Copenhagen has been the best time of her life.

Unique Viernes

Why I chose my host uni:

I was always set on studying abroad and the more I researched Denmark, the more I fell in love with the culture and fashion. When I heard AUT offered an exchange there, I knew DMJX was the perfect host uni for me.

I study a very interactive and hands-on degree, so the structure of DMJX really drew me in. I wanted to be challenged creatively and professionally, and what stood out the most was how DMJX collaborates with real clients and companies. Being able to work on real projects while studying was an incredible opportunity for me to grow.

How I found applying to my host uni:

Applying to DMJX was a long process, and it’s not an easy school to get into. I had to be nominated six months in advance just to be considered. Once I finally got the confirmation from DMJX, I had to wait for the winter semester applications to open. My course required me to submit a motivational letter and a transcript.

The visa process was also long. I couldn’t start my application for my visa until I got my acceptance letter, which I only got three months before my exchange started. Definitely a stressful process but it all worked out in the end.

My biggest tips for applying:

• Have your passport up to date, I recommend doing it in the nomination process
• Schedule your biometric appointment early. In order to get your visa approved, they have to ship your passport to the Danish Consulate General in Sydney, which I wasn’t aware of until my appointment. I got my passport back two weeks before I left the country. So always keep an eye out for a free slot
• Sorting out your CPR number once you move to Denmark is a must. This is basically your identity and what qualifies you for free healthcare. The process is pretty straightforward, and the other international students are willing to help you if you get stuck

How I found learning in a different academic system:

I really enjoyed my curriculum at DMJX. Similar to AUT, DMJX is also very practical. I was taught how to use new cameras, green screens etc, and I had access to so much gear that I could easily book out. Rather than having four sets of classes each week, my classes were set in blocks. For instance, I had one class for four weeks, and then another for six weeks. I found this really helpful, as I got to put all my focus on one assignment rather than four different ones.

I was actually the youngest student in my whole international and Danish cohort class. So being in a classroom with everyone much older than me was pretty daunting. But learning in this environment really opened my eyes and pushed me academically. Danes are also upfront and direct, which I definitely was not used to. However, embracing their honesty and openness was something I ended up admiring and really helped when I would get feedback for all my assignments.

What I gained from this experience:

Going on an exchange was honestly the best time of my life. I made so many memories and lifelong friends. I gained a lot of knowledge not just from my host uni but from other international students. If I wasn’t learning a new word or a new phrase from them, I was definitely trying something new.

I learned so much about myself and realised time spent alone is just as valuable as time spent with other people. Travelling for a month after my exchange was eye-opening. I gained so much independence and really had to trust myself when making decisions, big or small.

I created a new life in Denmark with people I would’ve never met if I didn’t go, and I came back home with a whole new perspective on life!