“I chose to come to Denmark because I was interested in learning more about Intercultural Studies and Aarhus University has that exact program. I first thought about studying this topic during a course in my bachelors called “Cross-Cultural Understanding” and afterwards I set out to find a related masters degree. I remember how happy I felt when I got the letter of acceptance from Aarhus University - I couldn’t wait to explore Denmark and the European way of living!”
“I’m happy with my time at AU thus far. I have some favorite professors that I admire not only because of the way they teach but also how experienced they are in the field of intercultural studies. Aside from the quality of teaching here, I also find the libraries at AU to be so comfortable for studying. Outside of the classroom, it was hard at first because I didn’t know many people, but it’s good now since I have found some great friends both from within my major and outside Aarhus University!”
“I have also been fascinated by the city here. It’s way smaller than Semarang and has a lot less people, but I like how everything in Aarhus is very organized. It’s quite Danish in that way!” Erika laughs. “During my first year I lived in a studio apartment provided by Aarhus University and it was perfectly located in the city center, so that made exploring the city and experiencing its social life a lot easier.”
“For me, the most challenging experience has been living in a studio apartment by myself during the winter time. If I could give any advice to future international students, it would be to find a dormitory with a shared kitchen. That way, you get to see people every day even if you don’t leave your building. When it’s cold, it can be tough to get out and about, so if you don’t have a built-in method of seeing people regularly, it can get quite lonely.”
“So far, I’d say what’s surprised me the most is the Kapsejladsen, or the boat race during the springtime. It’s an annual relay race held in one of the lakes on campus and tens of thousands of people come to watch it every year. If you haven’t seen it, you can look up some videos of past races on Google.”
“During my free time I love to walk in a park, such as the area around the Aarhus Botanical Gardens and the deer park in Marselisborg. I also love hanging out with friends. Sometimes we organize a dinner together or have coffee in the city center.”
“I guess it’s DOKK1 because I love working on essays or just reading there with the view of the sea, the beautiful sun rays and birds - it’s so relaxing.” Erika smiles, clearly thinking about those comfy chairs positioned right above the harbor.
“The LPDP scholarship that I’ve received covers my tuition as well as living expenses, so it is not necessary for me to find a part-time job.”
“I always try to expand my network through events and social gatherings, as well as maintain the network that I already have. It doesn’t have to be with people from the same university or major as you, but just people that I meet outside of school. For example, I’ve built a part of my network with the people at church and within Indonesian student network.”
“I took module 1 Danish at the student house, but then I decided to study by myself using Duolingo. I even bought the premium plan,” she says, chuckling a little. “So yes!”
“I really hope the knowledge and experience that I’ve received during my studies at AU will be beneficial for my future self and other students. I also hope my future will bring me more opportunities to travel around Indonesia and the world. Possibly a job in a multinational company or international NGO to build up my work experience.”
