Hi! I am Damian and I study Software Technology Engineering because I have always been curious and inspired by the complexity of coding solutions and how we can tell the computer what to do. Since the ground school, I was attending extra-curriculum classes where I had the chance to grow my passion and evolve it as I grew older.
I chose to study in Denmark, because I had a friend already studying at VIA and she recommended it to me – as well as the realisation that you can learn, but also have time and resources for a life on your own here. The amount of possibilities provided for students in Denmark is quite large, so that is what also attracted my attention.
Coming to Denmark
It was quite scary once I got to planning my move abroad – both the application to VIA and finding a place to live. I was afraid that I would do something a bit differently than expected and somebody would not like it and could impact my application. But if you provide the correct documentation and follow deadlines, it was actually not that difficult. Secondly, accommodation was a huge commitment – there was no coming back after I paid for it.
When it comes to the teaching, I expected much more dull work, theory, and assignments that I had to do, instead what it is actually like: more practical stuff that is to be used in real life work. Also, When I came here, I was worried about making new friends, as it was a new environment for me, however everybody was open and welcoming including other students, as we were all in the exact same situation.
Learning from a student job
I am on the 4th semester now and have not yet taken my internship, however I managed to find a student job in my field already at the 1st semester and learn quite lot from it. Working as a Student Software Developer taught me the importance of the quality of my work and that I am no longer doing something on my own, but I need to work well in the team. This is quite a crucial part that is highlighted at VIA, since every semester we work in teams to create a project and present it.
Trust and openness
My advice to someone who is considering studying and living in Denmark is to open yourself up for a slightly different culture in which everything is based on trusting others. As you get to live here longer, it occurs that trust is the currency. Another advice would be to take on new challenges and get out of your comfort zone since many great things are achieved this way.
One of the best things about living in Denmark, and I cannot stress it enough, is how much you can develop yourself if you want to. In my country it may be difficult for students to live on their own, however the infrastructure here is made for students and their development. There are a lot of associations or clubs you can join to meet new people and develop your hobbies. I have joined Horsens' table tennis club in which I do my passion and am able to interact with Danes. It is a great experience and I am happy to be able to continue my training there. Additionally, there is a programme for all international students allowing them to learn Danish and become more included in the culture and language. I am happy to have the chance to learn the language, and right now I am excited to go there every single time.