Discover the Danish concept of “hygge” in Denmark

I recently had the most incredible and rewarding experience at Aarhus University, Denmark where I undertook an intensive summer semester studying ‘Managing Language in International Organisation’.

The university environment was informal and interactive not too dissimilar to Australia, where you develop close friendships with peers and teachers. All our assignments involved group work, which allowed me to connect and collaborate with students from all over the world and get insight into the disparities in our cultures.

Our daily classes finished at 1 p.m., which was followed by a seasonal, vegetarian buffet lunch provided by Aarhus University, where we would all sit at communal tables and chat. On Thursdays, they also had an ice cream van that would come around and hand out free ice cream, making the uni week much more enjoyable.

Before arriving in Aarhus, my expectations of Danish society were shaped by the idea that it would resemble Australia’s warm and laid-back culture, characterised by strong bonds of friendship and camaraderie. However, while both cultures embrace a sense of community, this ethos manifests in very distinct ways. The most noteworthy contrast lies in the Danish concept of “hygge”, which emphasises creating an atmosphere of cosiness, comfort, and enjoying life’s simple pleasures. I loved getting to know the locals who showed me this way of life by taking me out for weekend picnics and hikes and having great conversations over a glass of natural wine.

Whilst I love Denmark and everything it has to offer, I must admit, I underestimated how high the cost of living is. If you’re looking to do this awesome program, I would recommend putting together a budget to ensure you have enough funds to make the most of your experience.

As the first country to implement environmental law, my experience in Denmark offered me the perfect opportunity to witness and interact with integrated sustainability initiatives. Throughout my time in Aarhus, I rode bikes everywhere I went, shopped only at their amazing vintage clothing stores, and tried their seasonal and sustainable restaurants.

Studying comparative systems of governing society was fascinating… I cannot wait to import the underlying values and political ideas within Danish society into my studies and future professional career. I enjoyed observing how Danish society successfully challenges the nexus of fashion and sustainability by emphasising the circular economy.

Maela Kornhauser
Bachelor of Arts in Communication (Public Communication) Bachelor of Law
Managing Language in International Organizations at Aarhus University, Denmark
Global Short Programs Travel Scholarship recipient