I studied a Master's in European Studies because it really aligned with my interest in European politics. I found the blend of anthropology, politics, history, and sociology really interesting. I did struggle a bit at first with the group work, though. In the UK, we don’t have much group work, so it was a bit of a learning curve for me. It was interesting to figure out how to work in groups, coming from a background where it wasn’t something I had done much before.
That said, my class was great. It was a small group, about half Danish and half internationals, which definitely made it easier. It was nice to know I wasn’t the only international student."
I work as a Marketing and Sales Enablement Specialist at ENKOTEC, a niche industrial machine manufacturer based in Skanderborg. I actually found the job on LinkedIn, and what stood out to me was how informal and approachable the recruitment process was. The hiring manager just included their email in the ad and said, “Please send your application to me,” which felt really personal and down-to-earth.
One of the biggest differences is the level of collaboration. In Denmark, everyone has a say and decisions are made together. It’s great for inclusivity, but sometimes it can slow things down - especially when you're used to the UK’s focus on efficiency. Still, it’s nice to be in an environment where everyone’s input is valued.
I really appreciate the flexibility and the high level of trust placed in employees. It’s perfectly acceptable to take time off for a doctor’s appointment or work from home without any guilt. There’s a strong understanding that as long as the work gets done, how you manage your time is up to you. Unlike in many other places where there’s pressure to stay at your desk all day, in Denmark, no one minds if you leave early or take a break, as long as your responsibilities are met. This work-life balance and autonomy make the work environment empowering, and I’d find it difficult to go back to a more rigid culture.
What I love most is the balance the city offers. It doesn’t feel like a big city, which suits me perfectly. You can walk almost everywhere, and it’s close to both the beach and the forest. That connection to nature is really important to me. Plus, there’s always something to do - cinemas, cafés, restaurants, and a great cultural scene.
The work-life balance here has made a huge difference. There’s a real sense of trust and flexibility in both work and life. It’s normal to take time for yourself - whether that’s going to the doctor or just leaving early. That mindset helps reduce stress and makes life feel more manageable. I really value how much people here prioritize well-being.
I was determined to integrate into Danish society, so I enrolled in evening Danish classes. Now, I use the language every day at work, and my skills have improved a lot. Since I started working, my Danish has gotten so much better - it’s been really helpful.
My hiring manager actually told me that learning Danish showed more than just language skills. It showed that I’m committed, willing to learn, and able to adapt. Even though I didn’t have much experience, it helped him see that I could pick up new things quickly. It definitely worked in my favor and helped me get the job.
If you're an international student in Denmark, I highly recommend getting a student job. Whether it’s related to your studies or not, any work experience helps you understand the local work culture. Learning Danish is also a big plus - it improves communication, expands your network, and opens more doors.
Finally, stay open to change. The skills you gain can apply to many fields. Know your strengths, and make use of career services - they’re a great resource if you're unsure about your next steps.
She says "It was great because studying in Denmark really encouraged independent thinking. You're pushed to come up with your own subjects, research questions, and ideas. That kind of independence really helped me prepare for my job, especially in my current role where I'm essentially the entire marketing department. It’s just me, so I have to manage everything on my own. It felt familiar, as it wasn’t too long ago that I was in a position where I had to figure things out myself. Now, I'm just doing it again, but in a professional setting."
