The opportunity to live in a different country is not something that happens every day, so it's worth taking the leap.

Student Ollie Thompson stood on a street in Copenhagen in the evening
Ollie Thompson
University of Copenhagen, Denmark
LLB Law with a Year Abroad
Ollie made friends from all over the world when he spent a year studying at the University of Copenhagen in Denmark.

Why did you decide to study abroad?

I primarily decided to study abroad because of my long-standing desire to live in a another country and experience life within a completely different culture, as well as to meet people from all over the world. So, when the opportunity arose to integrate this desire into my degree program, it felt like the perfect opportunity. After living in Copenhagen for nearly a year, it has solidified my desire to live abroad again.

What were your top three highlights whilst studying abroad?

For sure, my highlight from studying abroad has been the ability to meet amazing people from all over the world, particularly other international students who are experiencing living in a new culture and navigating it together. Meeting people from so many different cultures has given me the opportunity to visit many of them after leaving the exchange, such as visiting some of my friends in Korea and Australia.

Second is the ability to travel. Copenhagen has amazing transport links, which has enhanced my ability to travel both around Europe and Denmark. Currently, I live only six minutes away from the airport by train, so being able to travel quickly and cheaply has been one of the best things about studying in Denmark. While on exchange, I have been able to travel to Europe, Africa, and Central America.

I would say my final highlight has just been living in Copenhagen in general. It is always rated as one of the best places to live in the world, and I can definitely see why; the work-life balance is second to none. Also, the general culture of living in such a diverse city, where everyone cycles and swims in the canals even on cold days.

What would you say to someone who was unsure about spending a period abroad?

Just go for it! It is one of the most enriching experiences I think you will ever have. The opportunity to live in a different country is not something that happens every day, so it's worth taking the leap.

What is the one thing you wish you'd known before you left?

How expensive it is. Not just the general living expenses but a lot of the additional costs that come along such as the visa, housing deposits, etc. However, it’s totally worth it!

For students who will be arriving in Sheffield, what are your top recommendations for things to do and see in Sheffield?

My top recommendations would be to explore the Peak District as much as possible because it is so close by, as well as visiting other nearby cities. Additionally, because Sheffield is unique being such a student centred city, making the most of the student events happening, both organised by the University and just around the city, is a must.

A world-class university – a unique student experience

Sheffield is a research university with a global reputation for excellence. We're a member of the Russell Group: one of the 24 leading UK universities for research and teaching.