Why Denmark and why Aarhus University?
'I chose Denmark for my master’s because of its strong education system, great work-life balance, and high quality of life. Coming from a fast-paced job as a software engineer, I wanted to study at a university that values hands-on learning and career development. Aarhus University stood out for its flexibility in course selection, focus on research-driven teaching, and strong industry connections.’ She continues, ‘The practical approach to learning here is very different from what I was used to, and I appreciate the emphasis placed on real-world applications. Moving to a new country was a big step, but Denmark’s welcoming atmosphere and structured academic system made the transition easier,’ Sayana says, smiling.
How are you experiencing your time at the University and in the city?
‘Studying at Aarhus University has been a mix of challenges and exciting new experiences. The professors are passionate about their subjects and always open to discussions, which makes learning here feel more engaging.’ Sayana, like many other international students at AU, found a new challenge in adapting to the Danish educational system. ‘It took me some time to adjust to the academic culture, especially oral exams and the emphasis on independent study, but now I enjoy the freedom and flexibility that come with it.’
‘Life in Aarhus has also been a great experience. It’s a beautiful and peaceful city, but at the same time, it’s full of life with its student-friendly vibe and events. Managing classes, projects and part-time jobs can be overwhelming at times, but I’ve started to find my rhythm. One of my favourite things about living here is how safe and well-connected everything is; it makes balancing studies and personal life much easier. Plus,’ she laughs, ‘the pastries are amazing, which is always a bonus!’
What has your experience with student jobs been like?
‘Working while studying in Denmark has been a rewarding experience. I currently have two part-time jobs – one as a student assistant in the AU International Office and another as an IT infrastructure engineer in the Department of Computer and Electrical Engineering at Aarhus University. Surprisingly, I secured my first job even before arriving in Denmark by applying through the university job portal, which really helped ease my transition.’ Finding a student job can also be a challenge for international students, but Sayana preparations before arrival helped her succeed.
‘These jobs have given me hands-on experience with the latest technologies and a deeper understanding of Danish work culture. The workplace environment here is very different from what I was used to; it’s informal, collaborative, and values independent thinking. I also appreciate how closely students can work with faculty and professionals, making it a great learning experience beyond the classroom. Balancing work and studies can be challenging, but it has helped me stay connected to my field, build new skills and preparing for my career in Denmark.’
What kind of impact do you hope to make in your career?
‘I hope to build a meaningful career that allows me to grow both personally and professionally while maintaining a good work-life balance. Before coming to AU, I worked as a software developer, but through my master’s, I’m exploring different aspects of software, business and data analytics. Ideally, I’d like to transition into a junior managerial role where I can combine my technical knowledge with leadership skills. Aarhus has many leading global companies, and I’m motivated to find opportunities here after graduation. No matter where the future takes me, I want to keep learning, evolving and making a positive impact.’
