When Maja Niemirowicz from Poland decided to study abroad, it was her curiosity and love for learning that pushed her to take the leap. “I love a challenge and wanted something more out of my comfort zone - to immerse myself in a different language and a new environment,” she says.
After researching universities across Europe, Denmark stood out for its open, informal learning culture. “I really like the working culture here, the flat hierarchy, and the Scandinavian style of learning. Now that I’ve experienced it, it’s something for me,” Maja explains. “It’s so different from the model I was used to, and I love it.”
Maja is now in her first semester of the bachelor’s programme in Computer Science and has already noticed key differences in the way education is approached.
“In Poland, everything is very hierarchical,” she says. “Here, I have the freedom to choose the lectures or TA classes I attend - something I wouldn’t have experienced back home.”
Another big difference is the focus on teamwork. “We didn’t have any group work assignments, so that was something new for me,” Maja says. “But it’s very exciting. It’s easier to share the load, interact with people, and exchange ideas.”
She also appreciates how quickly the programme dives into hands-on learning. “Compared to my previous studies, we get into the practical stuff much faster here - especially on the programming side,” she says. “It makes the courses feel more engaging and relevant right from the start.”
Her favourite course so far? Algorithms and Data Structures.
“I love that course,” Maja says with a smile. “It’s very logical - not pure math, but it really challenges your way of thinking. I liked it even before university, and now I get to expand that knowledge.”
She particularly enjoys how approachable the teaching staff are. “It’s friendly and open. You don’t have to be scared to ask questions,” she explains. “The TA sessions are especially helpful - it feels like we’re on the same level, and help is always accessible.”
Maja laughs when she recalls one of her first emails to a professor:
“I started my message with ‘Dear Mr. Professor,’ and he immediately replied, ‘Please, just call me by my name.’ That’s when I realised how different and relaxed the culture here is.”
The introduction week also made a big impression on her. “The Intro Days were really helpful,” she says. “They made it so much easier to get to know people and feel part of the community right from the start.” Even for those who can’t attend, she adds reassuringly, “there are plenty of opportunities to socialise in the first weeks - you won’t be left out.”
When choosing where to study, Maja found Aarhus to be the perfect fit.
“Copenhagen felt too big and less personal,” she says. “Aarhus is the perfect balance between a big city and something cozy and comfortable. It’s a student city, and there’s always something going on.”
Although she hadn’t visited before moving, she quickly fell in love with the city - especially its seaside atmosphere. “I love visiting the sea. The Risskov beach is one of my favourite spots. I always wanted to live by the sea,” she says.
Maja also enjoys how active and social student life is - both at the department and around the city. “There’s just so much happening all the time - from study cafés and events at the department to concerts, clubs, and meetups in the city,” she says. “Sometimes it can feel almost overwhelming how many things you can attend - but in a good way! You can really pick and choose what fits your interests.”
She also points out how easy it is to settle in as an international student. “Everyone speaks English so well here,” Maja says. “You don’t have to be scared about not knowing Danish - people just switch to English without hesitation, which makes it so much easier to feel included.”
And when she needs a break, she hops on her bike. “Getting a bike is the best way to explore Aarhus. The infrastructure is amazing, and it’s perfect for a student budget!”
Despite being only in her first semester, Maja has already found a good balance between studying, working, and social life.
“It’s definitely manageable,” she says. “You can adjust how much time you spend at the university depending on your needs. I can study, work part-time, and still have a great social life.”
Maja recently landed a student job in IT after applying through LinkedIn. “I was lucky, but it’s been a great way to apply what I learn at university,” she says. “It’s a different form of learning, but it definitely complements my studies.”
Although she’s just beginning her bachelor’s, Maja is already thinking about her future.
“Now that I’ve started my studies here and I’m getting more and more into Aarhus University, I’m considering staying for my master’s,” she says. “There’s such a great variety of courses to choose from.”
And beyond that, Maja can even see herself staying in Denmark long-term. “For studies, Aarhus is a great city to live in,” she says. “But I can also imagine myself living here after graduation. I’ve already met many people who have settled here — and I understand why. The city is amazing, and it really feels like home.”
1. Apply for accommodation early.
“It really helps to have a place sorted before you arrive - it takes away a lot of stress when starting your studies.”
2. Set up your finances.
“Open a Danish bank account early so you can get MobilePay - it’s essential here! And a Revolut account can help you manage money at the beginning.”
3. Get a bike and embrace the weather.
“The best way to explore Aarhus is by bike. Don’t be afraid of the rain - just get some good rain pants!”
