Greetings from Denmark

Stella Follner reports on her semester abroad at Aalborg University

Why did you choose this particular partner university?

I was very interested in getting to know Scandinavia better, especially in terms of its social systems. At the same time, I wanted to move to a smaller, cozy city where I would quickly feel at home. That's why Aalborg appealed to me right away.

How do you like the university city? How do you experience the culture of the host country?

Aalborg is slightly larger than Innsbruck, but still feels very manageable. I love the relaxed atmosphere and culture here. The Danes are incredibly friendly, open, helpful, and very interested in other cultures – you notice this both in everyday life and especially at the university. In addition, Danes of all generations speak English very well, which makes everything much easier.

Where do you see the biggest differences between your host university and the MCI?

Aalborg University is known for its problem-based learning (PBL) concept. This involves working in fixed groups throughout the semester on a comprehensive project, which is then jointly defended orally at the end. I am familiar with group work from my Social Work studies in Innsbruck, but the workload in Aalborg is significantly higher.

From November to January, we work on our project as part of an intensive self-study program - with around 15 pages per person. For this reason, there are no more classes from the beginning of November onwards. In addition, there are two preparatory modules, each worth 5 ECTS credits, which are completed individually through assignments. The project itself comprises 10 ECTS, so that the project alone, including the preparatory modules, amounts to 20 ECTS.

Since a total of 30 ECTS are planned, there is little room left for additional courses. I only had one additional module with 10 ECTS, which I completed with an oral exam. For me, the biggest difference is clearly the time-consuming project work, which takes place over many weeks – together with a supervisor – in a very binding and structured manner.

What has been the biggest challenge so far during your semester abroad?

The biggest challenge was definitely my first oral exam in English in the “Global Gender Studies” model – a master's module as a bachelor's student. Looking back, my concern was completely unfounded: the examiners were incredibly friendly, reassuring, and smiled at me throughout my answers. In addition, we received our grades immediately afterwards, along with detailed feedback, which I found very appreciative.

Is there anything else you would like to tell us?

Even without mountains, Aalborg has a lot to offer in terms of sports and leisure activities. Through the organization “Try Outs Aalborg,” I was able to try out a wide variety of sports -such as curling and rowing - free of charge. The city is perfect for jogging; I love the route along the fjord. There is also plenty of nightlife: the famous nightlife street “Jomfru Ane Gade” is lined with bars, and you always bump into familiar faces. I particularly recommend International Night on Wednesdays – for example at StormP.

Another highlight in Aalborg is the well-organized buddy program. Before starting your studies, you can register for a buddy on the website. Regular events are held as part of the buddy program. In addition, the entire “Welcome Week” is organized by the buddies.

Aalborg also has a lot to offer culturally – numerous museums, cozy cafés such as Kaffebaren, and, of course, delicious Danish pastries (cinnamon rolls). In the west of the city, there is also the Fjordpark, a free outdoor swimming pool that is open all year round and is even used for ice swimming in winter.

All in all, Aalborg is incredibly diverse and really has something for everyone.