Jayson's experience on the 2022 Faculty-led Program Abroad to Denmark | Global Engagement | Seneca Students

Jayson is a third-year Chemical Engineering Technology (CHY) student who took part in a Faculty-led Program Abroad (FLPA) in Summer 2022 at Business Academy Aarhus in Aarhus, Denmark. 

Published: September 5, 2022

For some students, studying abroad is an opportunity to gain new skills. While for others, its a chance to travel to an exciting part of the world. Jayson saw it as the perfect opportunity to do both.

"Travelling across Europe has always been part of my goals as I've wanted to see a different side of the world. I participated in the study abroad program to Business Academy Aarhus (BAA) because I believe that its a great step towards fulfilling professional advancement in chemical engineering."

"Its the best of both worlds: you can travel and go to school at the same time"

Jayson was part of a group of CHY and CLP students who traveled to Business Academy Aarhus (BAA) on a Faculty-led Program Abroad. On this unique journey, students used the engineering concepts learned in their classes to brew their own beer using the school's state-of-the-art brewery.

Students lived and studied in Denmark for over two-weeks which provided many opportunities to become immersed into local cultures and communities. And for Jayson, it was also an opportunity to reflect on the differences and similarities between Canada and Denmark. 

"I was able to experience the differences and similarities between BAA and Seneca, how the education systems are different, and the cultural differences between Danes and Canadians. I loved how Danes balance their work and life, everyone seemed more relaxed throughout their day-to-day compared to Canada."

Cross-cultural experiences are expected to occur for students traveling on study abroad programs. Sometimes they can be negative and other times they can be positive. Jayson explained his favorite cross-cultural experience being in regards to the Danish active lifestyle.

"My favorite part of their culture was how active they are. Its not uncommon for locals to cycle everywhere!"

On the program, there wasn't a shortage of activities for students to do during their free time. With many travel blogs identifying the Summer months as the best time to visit Denmark, Jayson took advantage of the weather to visit the the various parks and famous museums. 

"Denmark is rich in nature and a good place to wander. There are plenty of things to do and interesting things to see - including the little mermaid statue, one of Copenhagen's most iconic attractions."

Upon reflecting on his time abroad, Jayson felt accomplished and pleased with the outcome.

"Truly, it was a great way to attain new perspectives on a different culture and way of teaching. I made so many amazing memories and friendships that I will hold onto for the rest of my life. I would encourage CHY and CLP students to participate in a study abroad opportunity. It is the best of both worlds: you could travel and go to school at the same time. "