Owen Bauer, DIS: Study Abroad in Scandinavia Fall 2024
When I decided to study abroad, I knew from the start that I wanted to live with a host family. The program I chose, DIS Copenhagen, paired me with a lovely Danish couple and their dog, Toffie. My host parents are in their early 60s, yet they are some of the most active people I know. They are part of a running club and spend much of their free time gardening, taking walks, and biking. They have hosted students from my program for over 20 years, ever since their kids were young. I cannot imagine what it would be like growing up with foreigners cycling in and out every semester, but I admire my host parents for giving their kids this unique opportunity. Now with the kids out of the house, they have room for two study abroad students. Another student from my program lives with us, and we have become good friends. We often go exploring and cook dinner together. I feel lucky to have another student to navigate the city and life abroad with.
The house we live in is about a 50-minute commute from the city by train, in a beautiful residential/rural area. There is a small town a 10-minute bike ride away that has nice cafes, a library, a movie theater, and stores. Our community has a public indoor pool, schools, and mixed-income housing. One of my favorite things about the area – and Denmark as a whole – is how much nature is incorporated into the lifestyle. There are walking and biking paths all over that take you to forests, ponds, fields, and beaches. I have always enjoyed nature and hiking, so this is the perfect environment for me. My favorite part of the area might be the fact that there are cows and horses in every direction. Nothing has made me happier than heading down the street to a nature preserve to greet some cows. Coming from a Cleveland suburb, this is so different than what I am used to. And yet we are only a thirty-minute drive from the city! I greatly appreciate having the balance between the city where I have my classes, and the quiet residential area I live in.
I have found that Danish houses are also harmonious with nature. Just about every house has an apple tree in the backyard. In addition, we have a greenhouse in which we grow tomatoes, grapes, cucumbers, peppers, and squash. The grapes are my personal favorite – they taste better than any others I have had. The municipality also helps the environment by picking up our assorted plastics, glass, cardboard, and compost scraps. I enjoy living in an area that values nature and sustainable living.
Overall, living with a host family has given me the perfect opportunity to gain cultural immersion, build strong relationships, and explore gorgeous areas I would not have found otherwise. Although living with strangers is no easy task, I have learned that communication is key. Whenever a problem arises, discussing it and asking for help is the best way to resolve it. If you are considering studying abroad, I highly recommend considering living with a host family. I have found it to be a rewarding experience.
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