Discovering Denmark: Living and learning in one of the world’s happiest countries

Name: Zachary Kang
Faculty: NUS School of Computing
Host Country/University: Denmark, Technical University of Denmark

What was your first week like in Denmark?

My first week in Denmark was both terrifying and exciting. Everything felt daunting at first — figuring out how to get around, where to buy groceries, how to settle in, how to navigate life in a completely unfamiliar environment — and there were moments when I wondered whether I had made the right decision.

But with each small step, things became a little easier. By around the fourth or fifth day, I could finally take a step back and think, "Okay, I’m going to be fine."

Looking back, it may seem like a small achievement, but that moment was deeply meaningful to me. It reminded me that stepping into the unknown can be uncomfortable, but it is often where we grow the most.

Why did you choose Denmark and Technical University of Denmark for your exchange?

I wanted to experience life in a Scandinavian country known for its progressive values, work-life balance, design and sustainability. I was curious about why Scandinavian countries consistently rank among the happiest in the world, and whether there was something about their way of life that I could learn from.

The Technical University of Denmark (DTU) was my first choice because its courses aligned well with my study plan and interests. I was also drawn to its proximity to Copenhagen, a city I had always wanted to experience.

More than anything, however, I wanted to challenge myself by stepping outside what was familiar and seeing the world from a different perspective.

What are some of your key learning experiences during your exchange?

One of my most meaningful learning experiences was working on a cybersecurity research project as part of a course at DTU, which eventually led to a published paper. Through the project, I collaborated with other students and a professor and gained a deeper understanding of their approach to studying and research.

The experience also taught me that learning does not always happen in a classroom. Some of the most valuable lessons came from working with people who thought differently from me, asking questions, making mistakes and learning how to solve problems together.

More broadly, the NUS Student Exchange Programme (SEP) gave me the opportunity to focus on learning with less pressure. Since my mapped courses at NUS were graded on a satisfactory/unsatisfactory basis, I could engage more deeply with the material without being overly focused on grades. It allowed me to rediscover the joy of learning for its own sake and to appreciate the process rather than just the outcome.

What are some of your fondest memories?

Some of my fondest memories are tied to the people I met through sports, travel, studying or simply everyday conversations.

I made many close friends during my exchange and tried to make the most of the time I had with them, knowing that I would eventually have to leave after a few months. Those new bonds and shared experiences were what made the exchange especially meaningful to me.

What did you learn from interacting with students from different cultures?

Interacting with students from different cultures taught me that people can have very different perspectives on work, social life, success and what matters to them.

At the same time, I realised that shared interests could bring people together regardless of cultural differences. Whether we were playing sports or discussing ideas for a research project, the shared excitement of working towards something together made it much easier to connect and form meaningful relationships.

Perhaps, most importantly, I realised that we often have much more in common than we think.

Any tips for NUS students interested in going on exchange?

I would encourage students to see the SEP as more than an opportunity to travel or complete courses overseas. It is an opportunity to step outside your comfort zone, experience a different way of life and discover more about yourself.

For many of us, university is one of the few times in life when we can immerse ourselves in another country with relatively little external pressure or long-term responsibility. Take advantage of that opportunity. Explore. Be curious. Say yes to new experiences that might initially feel unfamiliar or uncomfortable. Go on adventures and spend time with people who see the world differently from you. Exchange is a rare opportunity to experience new places, perspectives, friendships and ways of living.

Make the most of it! You never know how much one journey can change the way you see the world — and yourself.