To Travel is To Live

An Update

2007-06-08T12:10:00.000-05:00

The travelling didn't stop when I got back from Denmark:

San Francisco - January 2007

Chicago - March 2007

Atlanta - May 2007

Next stop... Toronto - July 2007

I'm Home...

2006-12-26T12:04:00.000-05:00

... and couldn't be happier.

2006-12-15T18:58:00.000-05:00

“If we fancy (think of) some strong emotion and then try to abstract from our consciousness of it all the feelings of its bodily symptoms, we find we have nothing left behind- no “mind-stuff” out of which the emotion can be constituted, and that a cold and neutral state of intellectual perception is all that remains…..” - William James

Close to my Heart

2006-12-14T17:09:00.000-05:00

My Host Mom & Me at Julefrokost 2006

It is hard to believe that 7 days from now… well… I’ll be back in Columbus. The process of re-entry will be a culture shock in its own right. The American lifestyle has become foreign to me.

I’m going to miss my host family. They have accepted me into their home, fed me, listened to my many stories, shared, taught, laughed and learned. My host mom is an incredible woman. I’ve learned a lot from her—from how to properly put on a duvet cover to being the best parent. I will miss her dearly. But as she said over dinner the other night, I will always have Denmark in my memories.

I’m going to miss the friends I’ve made here and all of the little things we’ve discovered about Copenhagen, about Denmark, and about ourselves.

I going to miss Denmark. I’m going to miss the hygge, the blonde hair & blue eyes, the bikes, buses, and trains, the rugbrød, Molly (the guinea pig), coffee breaks, rainy weather, the Danish language, and people who understand when I say, tak.

I’m going to miss the 9 hour dinner parties, wienerbrød, cute Danish children in snow suits, heart decorations at Christmas time, and Strøget.

Denmark will always be a special place. My second home. I’ve lived here. I’ve had my great days, my good days, and some not so good days—and that is life. I’ve immersed myself in another culture and adapted. To use the buzz word, I’ve had a true cross-cultural experience. I will forever be more aware of my own culture, and the culture of others.

But Denmark will always be with me… close to my heart…

And years from now, I can say…

I remember one time, in Copenhagen…

Until then...I’ll be home for Christmas…

Anna

Malmö!

2006-12-02T17:28:00.000-05:00

Yes, that is right my friends! I went to Malmö! And for those of you who are wondering where Malmö is, let me help. Malmö is a cute little city in Sweden which is a 35 minute train ride from Copenhagen. This town was full of wonderful charms around each corner. Only about 20 minutes of being in the city, I found the highlight... the Apoteket Lejonet. Built in the 1890s, this is one of Sweden's oldest pharmacies. The entire inside of this modern pharmacy is preserved in turn of the 20th century style. Simply fabulous....

And be sure to check out more pictures of Malmö here!

Enjoy...

Anna

Regimentation at the cost of individualism?

2006-11-30T05:44:00.000-05:00

The topic of public health is one that comes up often in my Impact of Epidemic Disease in European History class. In particular preventative public health, for example vaccination, has been discussed often. Many times my professor has talked about the responsibility of a government to provide basic health to its citizens.

But he also mentions that the result of this: regimentation, lack of choice. In order for a government to provide health to its citizens, the citizens are at the mercy of the government. You do what the state tells you to, and you really have no choice.

I’ve spent the last months living in a country that is completely based on social welfare. Everything is subsidized by the government. The tax rate is high (50-60% income tax). The government is a daily part of life in Denmark. I don’t often hear Danes complaining about the taxes, mostly my fellow students complaining about the 25% sales tax.

The Danes are happy people- the happiest in the world as one study shows. But it is my opinion this has come at the cost of individualism and choice. Perhaps why this country is so cute at times is that everything is the same, regimentized. The basis of Danish society is that everyone is at the same level. No one should have more or be better.

These ideas fall on the complete opposite of the American society- where individualism is encouraged, and many strive to have more and be better.

Is there a middle ground? Can we have a society with choice and individualism, which is also equal and orderly?

As I have learned while here in Denmark, it is ok to simply say...

I don’t know.

My analysis is purely anecdotal. I have no sociological background. I simply have lived in two drastically different cultures. I have also studied the American & Danish medical systems, and have had personal experiences with both.

There is a lot to learn from Denmark, after all it claims to be the worlds oldest monarchy. But I think that Denmark can also learn a bit from the States.

Anyways, I was just thinking….

Anna

What a day...

2006-11-27T14:05:00.000-05:00

I was thinking last night about the day ahead, and I came to the conclusion, today had the potential to be really good or really bad.

I'm pleased to report that today, despite many things, turned out to be fabulous. And to top it all off, this is what I get to come home to:

This note was on my door:

So, I'm thinking, just your normal Danish cake.... ni,ni,ni! Look what I found in the frig!!!!

And it tastes even better than it looks!

A Home Away From Home

2006-11-23T04:36:00.000-05:00

Today is Thanksgiving in the States. A day of family and friends, a day of reflection, a day of thankfulness.

Riding the train this morning, I got to thinking… At first I was dwelling on the fact that I wasn’t in the States. Today isn’t a day off (actually quite the opposite, I already had an exam this morning) to spend with my family, friends, and loved ones. I began to become sad, wishing to be at least be back in the States—where you walk into a grocery store and nearly trip over all Thanksgivin’ fixn’s. I wanted to be home.

But then I thought… wait, I am at home. In Denmark I have found my second home. A place to go back to, a place of memories and comfort, a place you share with those you love—is that not a definition of home?

Yes, I still wish I were in the Sates today to celebrate the holiday with those I love. But I can still celebrate the holiday here in my second home. And this year, more than ever, I have much in which to be thankful.

So, here’s a Happy Thanksgiving to all…

And if you do nothing else today, answer this question: what are you thankful for?

Gobble, gobble,

Anna

It may not have been...

2006-11-18T14:57:00.000-05:00

...OSU vs Michigan, but it was one good time. Today my host mom and I went to FCK vs Midtjylland -- aka the #1 vs #2 football teams (by football, I mean soccer) in Denmark. It was such a great time. Being away for the OSU/Michigan is hard, but what perfect timing for today's game. It was great to cheer and shout, and leave it all on the field. The final score was a tie, 2-2. So, enough with all of the chatter, and on with the pictures! (more pictures can be seen through the picture link to the right)

Me at the Game

Anna and Ann before the game

Pharmacies from around the world…

2006-11-14T16:29:00.000-05:00

I won’t lie. I am a bit of geek, perhaps pharmacy geek to be more specific. And apparently everyone knows this, because classmates are taking pictures of pharmacies from their travels and sending them to me.

I thought it would be neat to post a collection of pharmacy pictures. To me it represents a lot of what pharmacy is about—we are visible, active parts of the community. And we are everywhere! This aspect of pharmacy I cherish… helping those around me feel better everyday! What a wonderful feeling…

But enough with the talk, on with the pictures!

Copenhagen, Denmark (I'll get a better one soon!)

Berlin, Germany

Poznan, Poland

Fort William, Scotland

Moscow, Russia

Paris, France (taken by Nicole)

I know… It’s been awhile…

2006-11-14T16:25:00.000-05:00

My promise to blog readers worldwide to post most every week hasn’t materialized. There is so much to take in, who wants to sit at a computer and write?

Unless of course the following scenario presents itself: You are studying abroad at DIS and unlike other study abroad programs the coursework is relatively rigorous (i.e. you have lots of homework to do.) By the nature that you are studying at DIS, means you are in Denmark. And it is November. There is a simple equation to explain Denmark in November:

Denmark + November = RAIN!

Not to mention darkness (yes, it is worse than Columbus), and the cold winter weather setting in. So, you add all of these together, and zap, time to write a blog post!

You may begin to think Denmark is a cold, dark place. It is, but you see, the Danes have been at this sort of thing for many, many, many, many years. After realizing this, the Danish hygge makes sense! The Danes know how to deal: invite some friends over, cook up a dinner, open a bottle of wine, and light a candle… err, a few candles. And all of a sudden, the world is right. Maybe that is why the Danes are the happiest people on Earth…

Ahhhh… but what have I been doing? Writing papers, reading books, visiting monastery ruins, attempting I.V. lines on classmates… you know the norm.

But, I’ve also been doing a bit of thinking… and by a bit, I mean a lot. About what you might ask… everything. The product of all this thinking, and later discussions, is this: I will not be returning for another semester in Denmark. Rather, I will be returning to the States in December and graduating winter quarter.

I feel as though I have gained all that I can from this experience. Academically the course work I would be pursuing next semester is not as enlightening as this semester. Additionally, I have four more years of studying. This my year off, and there needs to be some time off studying as a part of it. It wasn’t an easy decision, as I love Denmark, the Danes, and DIS. But in my mind it simply makes sense.

And that’s the way it should be…

From Fabulous Copenhagen,

Anna

A Whole New World

2006-11-05T06:15:00.000-05:00

What a wonderful feeling to be back in Copenhagen, my second home. And yes, I am still alive! The past three weeks have been packed full of amazing sights, wonderful places, and fantastic people. Here is a bullet point list of the past three weeks:

Week 1 – Berlin, Germany and Poznan, Poland

- Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp
- Berlin Sightseeing (Berlin Wall, Museum Island, Checkpoint Charlie, etc.)
- Charite Hospital
- Berlin Medical Museum
- Sleeping Beauty Ballet
- Eating ‘blind’
- Poznan Sightseeing (Old Town Square, Miniature Poznan, Poznan Cathedral)
- Viewed an autopsy
- Shadowed a Pediatrician

Week 2 – Aviemore and Edinburgh, Scotland

- Hiked a mountain
- Mountain biked
- Fun-yaked the Spey River
- Visited a distillery
- Drove through the Highlands
- A Nessy spotting?!?!
- Biked through Edinburgh
- Visited city of Fort William
- Visited Stirling Castle

Week 3 – Moscow and St. Petersburg, Russia

- Sightseeing of Moscow (Red Square, Monasteries, Cathedrals, etc.)
- Bolshoi Theatre Ballet
- Visit to Moscow school
- Kremlin visit
- New Tretyakov Gallery
- The sights in St. Petersburg (Peter & Paul Fortress, St. Isaac’s Cathedral, etc.)
- Hermitage Museum
- St. Petersburg “Behind the Façade”

Amongst all of these major events I hung out with some great people—bonfires, PJ parties, Oct-toga-fest. I rode ferries, buses, planes, and trains. I had brief encounters with Polish and Russian police, rode in unmarked taxis, and navigated metro systems.

Taking all of this in is a process that has just begun, and will likely continue for a lifetime. But all of this traveling has made me realize… there is so much in this world to see and do. And while our time is short, we must make an effort to see and experience the world and its cultures. I’ve learned that while this world is vast, it isn’t as big as it was before. There are many countries and cultures, but as human citizens of the world we are all the same, we are human beings.

For me, it truly is a whole new world….

Back to the studies,

Until next time,

Anna

PS – Be sure to check out the past three weeks in pictures via the link on the right. Enjoy!

Time flies...

2006-10-14T23:52:00.000-05:00

when you are having fun....

The past week was so packed full of Danish goodness (and stress) that I didn't have time to write. But now, I find myself departing for the study tour and travels... and no time again.

So, here is hello and goodbye...

I'll write more when I return from:

Berlin
Poznan
Scottish Highlands
Edinburgh
Moscow
St. Petersberg

So long...

Anna

PS- Be sure to check out the pictures!

Oh Denmark

2006-10-07T05:55:00.000-05:00

It occurred to me on the train home this morning that the past 24 hours could have only happened in Denmark. Its just been a really unique couple of hours.

Lets start with the sausage stand- Peter's Pølser (see pictures). I believe this stand is by the Nørreport station everyday, but the name just occurred to me yesterday. So, this one is for you, Pete. Let me explain the sausage stands. First they are all around (but I have to say I haven't bought anything from them... yet). These stands, however, are not permanent. No, no, no, my friends, these things have little engines on them. So, lets say you are a sausage stand owner. You wake up in the morning and start up your sausage stand engine (which by the way is very, very loud). Then you proceed to guide it behind you and in the process block traffic, bikes, people. Where you take your sausage stand is based on a hierarchical system-- as you can imagine not all sausage stand spots are created equal. So, Pete, it looks like you've got a pretty darn good spot next to the train station. In any regard, at the end of the day you pack up your sausage stand and wheel it home with you. Oh, these Danes...

Lets talk about the exams I have had so far. I got a short "pop" quiz back yesterday. And by short I mean 8 questions. Which means, since I missed one, I got a B+. I also took another exam yesterday.. which was suppose to focus on the eye and OB-GYN, and maybe a bit about radiology. But it turned to be mostly radiology, a little on the eye, and no OB-GYN. But enough complaining. On with he good stuff!

In Health and Human Disease lab yesterday I drew blood. And you may think to yourself, well, it probably was a fake arm. No, no, no, I drew blood from a real, live human being (Allison to be exact). In turn I had my blood drawn as well-- which explains the weird picture of me holding a vial of blood. Why we kept our vials of blood is beyond me as I have no idea what to do with it. But I have one! Also in lab we learned how to do sutures. Which after a bit of practice is much easier.

So, after all this excitement with classes I came home to have dinner with the fam. After dinner we watched Pirates of the Caribbean, a favorite of my host sisters. After that I headed to the city and meet up with Tami to go to a party hosted by another DIS student. The party was alright, but around midnight we were getting ready to head out. But we never actually did... well, we did, but just much later. Somehow midnight turned into 4 in the morning. And let me tell you, riding in the front of the Metro is fun sober, its even more fun after a few drinks. So is riding on the back of Tami's bicycle. And making pesto at 5 in the morning.

I actually just made it home, desperately wanting to take a shower. Only to find that the shower was stopped up. But my host mom got it all fixed. It appears to be working fine now.

So, there you have it. Denmark: sausage stands, exams, and a few too many....

Skål! (Cheers!)

Anna

A Normal Day

2006-10-05T13:59:00.000-05:00

Perhaps you, a dedicated reader of this fine work of blogness, wonder what is that I do all day. I too have posed this question to myself many times. So, to answer both of our curiosities here is what a typical day is like (presented here as a Monday orThursday):

6:20AM – I wake up to my wonderful cell phone alarm (no really, this thing is amazing). I quickly press the snooze button, allowing for the precious 10 minutes of additional sleep.

6:30AM – I realize that I must make it to the shower in order to keep the shower routine on schedule. And yes this means that I must crawl out of the warm depths of my duvet. Oh, how I love my duvet.

6:30-6:45AM – There really hasn’t been a stated time in which I need to be out of the shower, but I try to keep my bathroom time on busy morning to 15 minutes. It’s probably for the best as it keep me from spending too much time in the bathroom.

6:45-7:00AM – I finish getting ready in my room- back my book bag, check my e-mail, organize, clean.

7:00-7:15M – Head upstairs to have breakfast with the family (or whoever is up). This is quite different for me. Typically in the States I eat breakfast alone. But it can be nice to have company in the morning.

7:15-7:25AM – Now that I have mastered the lunch making process, I can do this quite efficiently. So, sometimes it doesn’t even take 10 minutes. But in any regard, I use this time to pack my lunch.

7:30AM – I depart for the train station. It is about a 10 minute walk, maybe even a little less. The train I catch most mornings leaves at :41. It’s actually a quite complex system I have in my head, whereby I check to see if I am on time. You see the path goes along the train tracks, so when the train going the other direction passes me I know I have ~6 minutes until my train arrives. So, as long as I am past a certain point on the path when the other train goes by, I’m in good shape.

7:41AM – My train arrives and I hop on, find a seat. Most mornings I use the time on the train to do a bit of reading for class. Other mornings I use the time to collect my thoughts for the day.

8:03AM – Norreport Station. I hop off the train and make my way to the street. In the mornings if you walk up a certain set of stairs there is a guy that plays a violin. It’s actually quite nice, and I look forward to it in the morning.

8:04-8:15AM – It’s a quick walk from Norreport to DIS. I walk down a pedestrian shopping street and in the mornings all of the stores are getting ready to open. It’s actually quite neat to see each morning.

8:30-9:50AM – Class – Medical Consequences of a Western Lifestyle. It’s a good class, and if anything has stressed the important connection between lifestyle and disease. In the profession of pharmacy, and in particularly retail pharmacy, we have a chance to help patients make positive lifestyle choices to improve their health. In that way I’ve found the class to be relevant to my professional career.

9:50AM – 3:30PM – On Mondays and Thursday I have a large gap in between classes. It has actually turned out to be quite nice. Typically I catch up on some e-mails, check my mail, and maybe run a few errands in the city. Then I eat my fantastic lunch I packed earlier in the day. I try and reserve the last few hours of the break to quite studying in the library.

3:30-4:50PM – Brain Functioning and The Self – This class is simply wonderful. I love it. It has been a challenging course though, and she expects a lot from us. But the content of the course is fascinating and presented in a thought provoking way. She does good job of mixing traditional lecture, with discussion, with group activities, with videos. I never leave this class the same in which I came. My understanding of the psychology of the self, while not comprehensive, has grown tremendously.

5:00-5:10PM – Typically I try to make it to the train station to catch the :16 train home, but this never really happens. Normally there is always someone to stop and talk to on the way out of DIS, or someone to make plans with, etc. But lets just say on this hypothetical day I walk directly to the train station.

5:16-5:38PM – Ahhhh, the train ride home. Oh how nice it is to relax at the end of the day. If I am really ambitious I use this time to journal, but generally I use the time to collect my thoughts, and reflect on the day.

5:38-5:48PM – Walk home. I have noticed since I have been here that it is gradually getting darker on my way home. The sun is normally still up at this time, but in the next weeks it will probably be getting darker.

6:00-7:30PM –ish – During this time I typically spend helping prepare dinner and having dinner with the family. Dinner is an important part of my host family’s life. It is ok to miss dinner, but it is not ok to miss dinner and not tell them. Generally dinner is pretty low key, where we all tell stories about what happened during the day. I practice my little Danish, and they practice their advanced English. We both learn new words, and learn about the others cultures.

The rest of the evening is pretty much random. Sometimes I will do homework upstairs on the dining room table, sometimes watch a movie or TV, or sometimes just spend time in my room working on things – like typing this blog post.

But really right now, I should be doing homework. I’ve got an exam tomorrow (on eyes, OB-GYN, and radiology). Next week I have: a paper and exam on Tuesday, and another exam on Thursday.

But then it is the much needed travel break. If I can make it through the next week, then it’s all downhill from there. They sure keep us busy!

From your procrastinator abroad,

Anna

The World Within

2006-10-04T03:04:00.000-05:00

I soon realized that no journey carries one far unless, as it extends into the world around us, it goes an equal distance into the world within. -Lillian Smith

Maybe I spend too much time reflecting on the H-tog to Farum every evening. Or perhaps my personality rates high in introspection. Possibly. More likely, my journey is reaching the world within.

A new world surrounds me. Everyday something new, something different. But how does this new world outside affect the world within? It is unlikely that there is a simple answer. And equally unlikely that there is one answer.

Sure, there are the little things like moderately mastering the ‘European’ eating style (fork & knife!) and avoiding certain injury from bicycles. These, however, are external, observable. What on the inside has changed? And equally important, what has not changed?

Perhaps my journeys with Danish culture provide a place to start tackling this question. The majority of my Danish culture experiences have occurred within the context of my host family. My greatest observation: love and family transcend cultural boundaries. While perhaps my family is not the ‘typical’ family, they are proof that love knows no culture. Yes, you could argue that the expression of love is influenced by culture, but the true, pure emotion of love is what I am referencing.

I believe the outward display of love within my host family is simply a reflection of the within love. It is these external observations that I have prompted a questioning of love and family within me. How do I feel love and family within? How does my within express outwardly itself?

So, why even ask these questions? Because sometimes in just asking the question we find the answer. It has become apparent that the question of the within has become a constant theme throughout my journeys. In that regard, this is most likely just one post in a series of posts.

Now back to all this school work!

Your traveler,

Anna

Hello, Stage 5!

2006-09-28T11:21:00.000-05:00

Perhaps I should explain...

The process of cultural adaptation can be broken down into stages:

1) Pre-departure
2) Initial Euphoria
3) Increasing Participation
4) Culture Shock
5) Adaptation Phase
6) Re-Entry Phase

Today was the first day that I really felt as though I had firmly entered stage 5. This occurred to me as I was riding the train home today, simply reading a book, and going about my business. The environment was no longer foreign to me. In fact it felt quite normal, quite comfortable. Today I reached the point where the unknown becomes the known, the unfamiliar becomes the familiar, the surreal becomes the real. To be at this point and to realize this is phenomenal.

So, these past few weeks of being a bit down, frustrated, and annoyed have paid off. It is refreshing to enter a foreign environment and adapt, yet still not lose your sense of identity. In fact, going through this process has renewed my sense of confidence. My confidence in who I am, both as an individual and as a member of the greater world.

Maybe my philosophical ramblings have something to do with the fact that I spent all day studying the brain and reflecting on the concept of the self, but I'd like to think not.

Until next time,

The now more culturally adapted, Anna

Updates

2006-09-27T02:27:00.000-05:00

These past few days have been busy, busy. But my pictures from Arhus have been uploaded to the fabulous new Picasa online web albums -- be sure to check them out via the link to the right.

I now have access to my money, which means I am less of a poor, college student studying abroad ;)

The picture of me on this post is of one of the Jelling stones. This stone represents the first time Denmark was written as a word.

In other news, it is exam time. I had one on Monday, and another tomorrow. Plus, three more next week, and a paper due. This hasn't stopped me from having a good time though. Last night I went to a drag show with Walter. And I have to say, you really haven't experienced Danish culture until you've been to a Danish drag show. I didn't understand a word, and apparently the songs are so Danish that there really isn't a translation. Oh, those Danes...

I need to be on my way.

From Wonderful Copenhagen,

Anna

4 weeks....

2006-09-24T06:41:00.000-05:00

I've been in København for 4 weeks!
In these 4 short weeks, I have:

1) navigated the public transportation system (including the night bus)
2) learned enough Danish to say: thanks, sorry, where are you from?, and potatoes
3) had a first hand experience with the Danish medical system
4) Traveled around Denmark: København, Helsignør, Århus, Jelling, Lynby, Gilleleje
5) Survived the Danish hygge
6) I've visited 4 museums, 3 hospitals, 2 castles, 2 amusement parks, and 1 deer park.

Somewhere in all of this I have attended classes, taken an exam, and started working on a couple of papers.

Ahh.... the study abroad experience.

Still kickn' it in København,

Anna

2006-09-21T07:47:00.000-05:00

The present is never here. We are hopelessly late for consciousness. - Damsio

Update

2006-09-20T14:41:00.000-05:00

Greetings all.

Yes, I am still alive. Just working a bit on the STUDYING part of the study abroad experience.
But, in very exciting news, I have started to collect pictures from others who had opperational digital cameras this past weekend. So, be sure to check out the Photo link to see pictures of ME!

Hej, hej,

Anna

On the Danish Medical System

2006-09-18T11:37:00.000-05:00

Today I had a first hand experience with the Danish medical system- as a patient. And considering everything, I think it went really well. Especially since I don't speak Danish. It started off by calling a doctor listed in the Student Handbook... of course the message was in Danish. I stopped by the Front Desk to seek help. They were able to call a doctor, however, this doctors office refused to treat me since I didn't live in the area. It was suggested that I get a hold of my host mother to find out her doctor.

So, I sent my host mother a txt message, for which she replied with her doctor's name. I looked him up, and gave him a call. Unfortunately, he did not have any appointments. So, I tried a few other offices, only to get messages in which I didn't understand. Finally, I decided to call my host family doctor back. Luckily they had an appointment later in the afternoon with another member of the practice. I jumped on the train, navigated the streets, and found the office. Then proceeded to spend a good couple of minutes trying to figure out how to get into the building. The receptionist was amazing kind and graceful. And the doctor was amazing.

While I can't generalize about all GPs in Denmark, I really like how this office was set up. They were running on time, and my entire visit was with the doctor. Her office and the exam room were the same room. She spoke fantastic English, was kind and compassionate, listened, examined, and made a diagnosis. She even told me directions to the Apotek to get my meds filled. The pharmacy was busy, but I got my script filled in 10 minutes. Every thing is pre-packaged. Also, ALL of the scripts are standard. Meaning every doctor uses the same script form. The pharmacy technician I spoke with knew English, and again was kind and helpful.

I did all of this in about an hour, and was able to make it back to DIS and my afternoon class. I've made it home for the day and will be heading to bed shortly to take a nap. In addition to my minor aliment, I also have a cold.

There were points in the day when all I wanted to do was crawl in the corner and cry. But in all of this, I am thankful for the many things that did happen in my day.

I received TWO letters from my wonderful girlfriend AND found the best cookies (actually biscuits) in the world called Hit. Which are described on the package as: biscuits with a delightful chocolate flavoured filling. Plus I found lots of tissues for 5 kr! 5 kr!

And also, as I look back at the events of the day, it is nice to realize that no matter what situation I find myself in, I have the capacity to take care of myself, and the ability to create and use a support network.

On that note, I'm signing off from Copenhagen,

Anna

To Århus and Back

2006-09-17T03:48:00.000-05:00

I've been away for the past few days on our Medical Practice and Policy Short Study Tour to Western Denmark. Let me recap:

We left Thursday morning from Copenhagen, our first stop was the Hamlet Hospital in Frederiksberg. The hospital is unique in that is is private. After a presentation about the workings of the hospital we were given a tour. It was interesting to compare the public hospital in which we have classes to a private hospital. As far as the quality of the hospital, there really isn't that much of a difference in the private versus the public. It is also interesting that the private hospital does treat public patients with public insurance when the capacity of the public hospital is unable to keep up. So, the private hospitals have gone through a progression. They used to be an alternative to the public hospitals, right now they act as a buffer to the public system. However, they are gradually becoming two parallel systems. To me the private hospital looked more like a more advanced outpatient clinic, then an actually hospital (they have no emergency department for example). The visit was a unique opportunity to contrast the public versus private care within the context of a comprehensive public health care system.

After leaving the hospital we traveled on to Århus. Because we were running late our hour long walking tour of the city was reduced to about 15 minutes. But in a way 15 minutes of this tour was more than enough. After checking into our hostel (which by the way was in the woods, a good 20 minute walk from the city), we had dinner at a fabulous Italian restaurant. Good food (lots of it), good drinks, and good company. Later on I met up with Walter and Tami. After standing on a street corner and conversing for probably a good hour or so we went to the Social Club. The primary reason for this was there was no cover for students, AND free beer for the first hour. It was a great time to hang out with fellow students outside of the classroom.

Friday was packed full of events. First was the Steno Museum which is a museum for science and medicine. The guided tour was fantastic. Of particular interest to me was the pharmacy exhibit, which of course I had to stop and spend time investigating. Of course they had the normal bottles of drugs for compounding, but they also had a few very old prescriptions, a pharmacists label printing machine, and an old Danish Pharmacopoeia. It got me thinking... is it possible that our printer from work would be on display in a museum many years from now?

After the Steno Museum we went to ARoS (http://www.aros.dk/?setlanguage=2), an art museum. Generally I am not a big fan of art museums, but this one was amazing. Of course, the architecture was amazing. The entire building is designed not to guide you from exhibit to exhibit, but to allow you to navigate your way through by making your own decisions. Also, there is not art outside of the exhibits. For example all of the walls as you walk up the stairs are white. This is to help clear your mind as you walk from exhibit to exhibit. It really is a fantastic museum.

A visit to the Skejby Sygehus Hospital was next on our tour. This hospital is public hospital associated with Århus University. Here we had a presentation from the Chief Physician of the the pediatrics department and two medical students. Studying medicine in Denmark is much different then in the States. Besides being subsidized for just being a student, the working conditions for medical students are much better. For example, while they have to do a few later shifts throughout their rotations generally they are not required to work beyond 10pm or more than 8 hours. Because of this, over half of medical students have families. It also helps that the government provides day care, etc. Both of the medical students that presented had children. An interesting contrast to the American system.

The rest of the evening was on our own. Since it was Friday, I explored the shopping opportunities in Århus. My efforts paid off as I bought a wonder pull over which will increase my ability to layer. Yuppie! Dinner was Italian again, however, a different restaurant. Followed by ice cream! Later we all went to a 10kr bar (most of the drinks were 10kr, approx. $2). I really didn't feel comfortable in this very, very heterosexual environment, and left after a short while. It all turned out for the best as I ended up having a wonderful conversation with a fellow student about adjusting to the study abroad experience. Much better than spending an evening at a seedy bar.

Saturday's first stop was Jelling. In this little town there exist two stones - Jelling stones (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jelling_stones). These stones are from the viking era -- dated around 950-1000. On one of these stones is written the word Denmark. This is the first time in Danish history that the word Denmark was used. The other stone represents the beginning of Christianity in Denmark. It is also interesting to note that the first King of Denmark lived in this area, and that the current Queen Margrethe is related some 29 generations back.

Egeskov Castle was the next stop. This place was kind of bizarre. Here, I walked among tree tops, saw the ORIGINAL Superman consume, walked through a motorcycle museum, visited Dracula's Crypt, and got lost in a maze. Bizarre really is the only word to describe this place. This was the last stop on our tour. On the way home we had a brief discussion on the bus in which we compared the Danish and American health care systems.

Sorry for such a long post... Unfortunately right now I do not have any pictures. But they will be coming as soon as I get my photos developed. As well as get photos from others on the trip.

Later today I am going to a rowing competition to cheer on my host sister. Then it is homework.

From Copenhagen...

Anna

It's the little things...

2006-09-12T12:16:00.000-05:00

The reminders of not speaking Danish are around me all day. Like the fact that I can't understand my voicemail. Or the instructions for my cell phone. Or the train station announcements. Or mail from the Danish government. Or mail from the bank. It adds an extra layer of complexity to every situation.

However, it puts things in a different perspective. I have to be more observant about body language, and gestures. It has also given me a different perspective on how I interact with different cultures, different people.

Cultural Awareness.

Perhaps the greatest fairy tale...

2006-09-11T03:19:00.000-05:00

Wow, what a couple of days. Let me recap. Friday night was spent walking around the city with Tami & Walter. We bought some beers and sat on Nyhavn (the famous street with the painted buildings). It was a fabulous evening and the view from the pier was amazing-- including a stunning view of the Opera House.

Saturday morning I went with the family to Pernille's work. I'm not sure exactly how you would describe this place, it isn't exactly a park, but isn't a farm. Maybe the best way to describe it is a 4H project? In any regard, I met the horse, cow, sheep, goat, guinea pig, and cat. I've posted pictures -- be sure to check them out.

Later that afternoon I meet up with Tami & Walter again and we went to Klampenborg. It is a royal park with an amusement park as well as a deer park (Dyrehaven). It was a great time had by all. The park is actually quite large, and we ended up seeing quite a few deer, but not nearly the 2000 deer that are suppose to be there.

Sunday was Tivoli (http://www.tivoli.dk/composite-3351.htm)! The entire family went (Ann, Pernille, Katrine and myself) and we meet my host grandmother there. This place is amazing! It is considered to be the oldest amusement park in the world. We rode pretty much every ride there. It was a really great experience to have with my host family. They are so proud of Tivoli, and have so many memories throughout their childhood from Tivoli. They were so excited to show me the whole place, which they know like the back of their hand. We went home and ordered a pizza. We all ate so much food! All of us were about to fall asleep at the table!

I ended up falling asleep without doing anything else for the rest of the night. I am still exhausted today-- and have so much homework to do (plus an exam tomorrow). On a really sad note, my camera is broken. This gets me deep. Urgg. However, my repaired iPod should have been delivered this morning.

And my pants don't fit. Since I walk AT LEAST 40 minutes a day, eat 3 HEALTHY meals a day -- I have lost so much weight that I need a new belt, and soon new pants.

But.... I got a letter from Lauren this morning, and this makes my day :)

Be sure to check out the new pictures, and hopefully I can get the camera situation worked out so there will be more pictures.

And remember...

Perhaps the greatest fairy tale of all, is life itself.
-- the H. C. Andersen flying suitcase ride at Tivoli

With love from Copenhagen,

Anna

I couldn't be happier....

2006-09-10T03:52:00.000-05:00

Why I'm happy:

1) Last night I got to talk to my girlfriend!
2) I'm going to Tivoli today!
3) The Buckeyes won!

:)

Identity.

2006-09-06T14:40:00.000-05:00

Perhaps the most rewarding experience of studying abroad, of being abroad, or even simply being out of one’s comfort zone, is finding oneself. This however doesn’t come easy, and it doesn’t come quick.

Yesterday I went to three classes – Russia Today, Epidemic Disease, and Health & Human Disease. During the Health & Human Disease we engaged in a conversation mostly regarding the Danish medical system. Perhaps the biggest question that arises is where do you draw the line with health care? If you are a Danish citizen skiing in Austria and break your leg, you are still covered by the Danish health system. Right now there are no limits. And even equality prevails. In fact this July the government lifted the ban not allowing doctors to artificially inseminating lesbian couples. Very progressive. However, even though this may seem like a good system, there are flaws. One such concern is the emergence of private hospitals which some fear will undermine the public health system.

In any regard, after class I went to the International Club meeting. I will admit I mainly went on the pretense of free food (& wine!); however, the discussion topics were intriguing. In me, it has prompted the process of identity questioning. Of even questioning very fundamental aspects of my life. More on this later.

After a bit of wine and cheese (cheddar!), I went to the Student House. Tuesday night is GayDay so I thought I’d give it a try. I ended up meeting two women from Scotland, not gay, but spoke English. We chatted for a quite awhile, exchanged e-mails, and then they went on their way. A fellow DIS student meet me a little while later. The crowd wasn’t too lively at the Student House so we decided to check out another gay bar. We went to Masken (http://www.maskenbar.dk/) and proceeded to drink a little too much. Masken is a cute little place with a bit of a mixed crowd, but a little bit on the sleazy side as well. We (being Krystal and I) started chatting with the two guys next to us at the bar – and I didn’t pay for a single drink the rest of the night. It was great fun. Especially being around gay people again. Around midnight, I thought we should probably head to the train station to catch the last train…

Turns out that the train schedule has been changed and the last train leaves just before midnight. To our rescue was another DIS student, Stephanie, who recognized us and our need for help. Since her train was still running she offered her place to spend the night. After making a pit stop at the gas station for a bathroom break and to buy a frozen pizza we headed to her place, where I proceeded to pass out on her floor. A note about the pizza: everything on the box was in English, except the instructions. Why? Urg…

I left to go back home around 9am and to finally shower, etc. I headed to my local Kommune to get my CPR # (aka social security number). During this process I was assigned a doctor – a bizarre experience, but I guess this is a completely social welfare state. Then I headed to the city to run some errands. I found a great café/bar (http://www.oscarbarcafe.dk/) and enjoyed a cup of hot chocolate. It reminded me a lot of MoJoe in Columbus – except with smoking.

My commute home took about 2 hours. The H train kept on getting cancelled, then delayed. Of course I don’t understand a word they say over the speakers. Finally I got on my train. But I apparently missed the message that it wasn’t stopping at my stop. And the train went zooming by my stop. I got off at the next stop, then had to wait for the train going the other way. It was all a big mess. I tried to ask a few people, but both shook their heads no when I asked if they spoke English. It was a very frustrating experience.

But, yeah, my life is like that sometimes…

Things you learn quick in Denmark:

2006-09-04T11:47:00.000-05:00

1) LAYERS, and lots of them
2) Always, ALWAYS carry an umbrella
3) Take a number

I've mastered #2 successfully, however, 1 & 3 need some work. Today I went to the bank to setup a bank account (accounts on foreign soil, isn't that exciting). I went up to a teller and she completely ignored me. Ok... maybe this station is not open. So I wait a bit. Another woman walks in behind me, sees that I am a dazed and confused foreigner, and hands me her number. I take the number and walk up to the teller. And then she could help me... I will learn.

As for the layers thing, I'm still trying to master it. There is a saying in Ohio, if you don't like the weather, wait five minutes. Well, clearly Ohioans haven't been to Denmark. The weather is constantly changing here. Today I was hot, cold, chilly, sweating.... I will learn.

And... I have my camera now. So be sure to check out the new photos... and yes, those are all bikes. What do you expect from a country that has more bikes than people?

It has only been one week

2006-09-02T17:30:00.000-05:00

The past couple of days have been busy-- and they should be. I didn't study abroad to do nothing. Thursday was the first day of classes. My first class was The Medical Consequences of a Western Lifestyle. So far this class looks interesting. We focus not only on the diseases prevalent in Western society, but also how society and disease relate. Also on Thursday I had Brain Functioning and the Self. I am looking forward to this class the most. So far it is fabulous. The instructor is amazing. We had a discussion about the mind-body problem. I can't wait to do the readings for this class.

Speaking of readings..... yikes. They really weren't kidding, that this is STUDY abroad. I have so much reading to do already for next week. And a lot of papers to start thinking about.

But lets not forget that I am in Denmark! On Friday I had The Impact of Epidemic Disease on European History, and after after class I walked around the city for about two hours. While I was never exactly lost, I did get a bit turned around. But managed to find my way back. I took quite a few pictures, but left my camera in my locker at DIS for the weekend, so the pictures will have to wait until early next week.

I have met some incredible people. Friday night was a DIS sponsored night out. It was an amazing night. I love the interaction with different cultures, with different people. On my left was someone from the Czech Republic and on my right was someone from Poland. Across from was someone from Honduras, and someone from Singapore. Not to mention a lot of American students. It was fabulous to be surrounded by such diversity.

Today I got to sleep in. Later my host mother took me to Helsingor. Unfortunately I didn't have my camera with me. But we will be going back. While in Helsingor we made a brief visit to the Kronborg Castle. This is the most famous castle in Denmark. Some might know it from Shakespeare's Hamlet. Fortunately we will be going back, and this time I can get pictures. When you stand and look at the sea you can see Sweden. It is breathtaking.

After walking around the castle grounds a bit we went walking about the city. Ann ran into a few friends (she grew up in Helsingor). We then had some fabulous ice (aka ice cream) from one of the most famous places in Denmark. You could tell because the line was out the door. We then did a bit of shopping. There is nothing like shopping in a grocery store to remind one that you really are in a foreign country.

We then picked up my host grandmother from bingo and went to her place. We sat on the patio and had an afternoon break. It was fabulous. The weather today was beautiful.

Which brings me to another point - today I learned how to do laundry here. I have know doubt my host mother was laughing inside as she watched me try to hang clothes on the clothes line. Ekk.. I couldn't help but laugh at myself.

Tomorrow we are going to a market of some sort. From our best translation efforts I believe it will be kind of like a flea market. We'll have to see.

Signing off,

Anna

Hvad hedder du?

2006-08-30T15:50:00.000-05:00

It was a good day. The only orientation I had today was Survival Danish in the afternoon. My intention was to sleep in, but only until 9am or so and wonder around the city a bit. But I ended up sleeping a little later and just ate my lunch in the city.

Danish was good, and I am thankful it was my last Danish class. This language really isn't my thing. However, I can say "Hvad hedder du?" o "Hvor kommer du fra?" ("What is your name?" and "Where do you come from?"). And that is about it. They did give us a walking tour of good places around DIS to eat, shop, bank, post letters. It was very informative.

After Danish, DIS provided a tour of the Calsberg Brewery. Afterwords, there was free sandwiches and beer. It was a fantastic time, and needless to say the bus ride back to DIS was much more talkative than the ride to Calsberg.

In other interesting notes, I was asked at the train station which train to take into the city. And I knew the answer. I must be blending.

So, tomorrow starts classes. I have quite a bit of reading to do for my first class (about 60 pages or so). I best be getting to that. Also, no worries, I am documenting all my adventures in pictures. However, since this blogger site is very weird about uploading pictures, I have decided to upload them to Yahoo instead. Here is the link: http://photos.yahoo.com/annagehres

Signing off from Copenhagen,

Hej, hej,

Anna

2006-08-29T16:04:00.000-05:00

"At vove er at miste fodfaestet for en stund - ikke a vove er at miste sig selv." -Søren Kierkegaard

"To dare is to loose one's footing for a while - not to dare is to loose oneself."

Day 2

2006-08-28T14:01:00.000-05:00

So, it is only Day 2, but I already feel like so much has happened. Everywhere you look there is something new. And while I doubt that this will last much longer, I'm enjoying it while it lasts.

The day started off by my host mother taking me to The Black Diamond. We meet up with Laurel (another DIS student) and her host mother who live two train stops before mine. The Black Diamond, in the first picture below, is home to the Royal Library. The building itself is incredible. The room in which the opening ceremonies were held was amazing-- moving acoustic panels and all. At the opening ceremonies we had a chamber quartet play a sampling of classical music. We also had several speeches my DIS people.

After the opening ceremonies Ann (my host mom), Laurel, Laurel's host mom, Laurel's friend Laura, and myself went to lunch in downtown Copenhagen. It was wonderful. During lunch Laurel's host mother asked if I had a boyfriend back home. Finally a perfect opportunity to bring my sexuality-- AND a wonderful opportunity to talk about my wonderful girlfriend ;) Everyone was very supportive, it was refreshing. After lunch we headed off to a sightseeing tour of Copenhagen. And that is pretty much what it was. While it was a very touristy activity, it was a nice introduction to Copenhagen. Below are a few pictures from the tour.

After the tour I went to DIS to pick up my cell phone, all is well in that department. If you would like the cell number, just contact me. I've successfully mastered the S-train system, and made my way home with no problems. Dinner tonight was good (spaghetti). After dinner my host mother and I walked around the neighborhood a bit. It is a very nice neighborhood. And a wonderful evening with my host mother.

Tomorrow is an early day (6:30 shower -- 4 women, 1 bathroom). So, I best be getting to bed soon. On schedule for tomorrow is Coping in Copenhagen and Survival Danish.

And don't get used to these frequent posts. We've already have reading assignments for our first classes (both required & recommended), and textbook pick up is tomorrow as well. Even though these first few days have been busy, busier days are likely to be in store.

Enjoy the pictures....

Anna

The Black Diamond

The Queen's Palace (she was home today, as noted by the flag)

The Little (very little) Mermaid

Greetings from Copenhagen!

2006-08-27T13:34:00.000-05:00

I have made it to Copenhagen. Right now I am feeling the symptoms of the weary traveler.

My flights went well. It turns out there were about 45 or so DIS students on the same flight. The flight was short (only 6 hours and 45 minutes); however, the turbulence was the worst I’ve ever flown through. This made sleeping difficult - which does not help the jet lag. We arrived and were greeted by a slew of DIS staff members (and multiple check in points) and then transported to the University of Copenhagen. Here we proceeded to be given more information than this weary traveler could digest.

We received a very brief orientation to housing, then I got meet my host family. They are wonderful. I feel very at home. My host mother is amazing. She took me to the train station to get my transportation card, a very necessary item. And she has taken the day off tomorrow to help me figure everything out.

So, tomorrow is opening ceremonies. It is going to be an early morning (8am). After opening ceremonies it is a brief sightseeing bus tour of Copenhagen.

I don’t believe there is any amount of preparation that can be done before studying abroad. To think that so much about my life has changed in the past 24 hours is almost surreal.

But it is great!

Until Next Time,

Anna

P.S. – The picture on this post is of the desk in my room. Pretty nice set up ;)
P.S.S. – I apologize in advance for grammatical errors. It’s the jet lag.

Farewell, and Goodbye

2006-08-26T06:09:00.000-05:00

As I make final preparations to depart the States, I thought one last blog post would be in order. My next post will be from Denmark!

I also wanted to take this time to thank all of those in my life who have made this trip, this experience, possible. It is hard to believe that it is here already.

Until next time,

Anna.

P.S. I miss you.

Good Byes

2006-08-21T09:28:00.000-05:00

My co-workers threw me a surprise going away party last night-- under the disguise of a accuracy meeting. It was really, really nice of them all. I had a great time. I'm going to miss them all. Today marks 5 days until I leave. At some point I probably should get the suitcases out of the closet and start packing. Everyday it becomes a little more real.

I did some research on the area in which I will be living in Denmark - Bagsværd a suburb of Copenhagen. It is home to the Church at Bagsværd, designed by Jorn Utzon. Jorn Utzon, a danish architect, also designed the Sydney Opera House, among other buildings. The design is intended to invoke the feelings of spirituality and peace that come from clouds. The picuture above is of the church.

My Host Family

2006-08-17T17:26:00.000-05:00

To say I am excited is an understatement. I got word from my host family. Ann is my host family mother and she lives with her two daughters (17 & 14 years). I have my own room with everything I need, in a quite part of town. I will be living in a suburb of Copenhagen - Bagsværd which is about 15 km from the city of Copenhagen. Bagsværd (of which I am not sure how to pronounce) is the home to the headquarters of Novo Nordisk - makers of insulin products. Very cool. The commute will probably be around 30-45 minutes to class. Did I mention its only 8 more days?!?

I. Can't. Wait.

Less than TWO weeks!

2006-08-13T20:12:00.000-05:00

It is hard to believe... but Denmark is almost here! They are starting to send out the housing assignments. I have to say I am really excited about meeting my host family. In other notes, there is a lot to do in the coming week. Mostly just practical items. The next two weeks will fly by...

I'll keep you posted.

PS - Where in the world does one start to pack?

Happiest Country

2006-08-09T08:25:00.000-05:00

I came across this news article recently:

http://www.999today.com/society/news/story/3473.html

Apparently in a study rating the happiness of nations, Denmark topped the list. Funny that... considering Denmark has Europe's second highest suicide rate.

Three Weeks

2006-08-05T07:45:00.000-05:00

On Saturday, August 26th, I will depart for Denmark. In an effort to stay connected with family and friends, I have decided to publish a blog documenting my travels abroad. Hopefully this will reduce the need for lengthy e-mails and increase the number of people with which I can share my year abroad.

First, a little information. While in Denmark, I will be staying with a host family in the general vicinity of Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark. The program in which I am studying with, DIS – Denmark’s International Study Program, is affiliated with the University of Copenhagen. My courses will mostly be centered around the Medical Practice and Policy Program.

Second, contact information. I will have e-mail access while abroad, and this is the most efficient way to be in contact. Mail can also been sent to the following address:

Anna C. Gehres
c/o Denmark’s International Study Program
Vestergade 7
DK-1456 Copenhagen K
Denmark

Over the course of the next three weeks, I will post occasionally with updates on pre-departure preparations. While abroad I hope to post at minimum every other week, but will attempt to update more frequently, possibly weekly.

Until next time,

Happy travels,

Anna.

(Photo: Old and New Square, the central square in Medieval Copenhagen. DIS is 200 yards to the right.)