My journey in Copenhagen thus far has been unforgettable. In my “Sport, Society and the International Olympic Movement” class, I’ve had the opportunity to explore not just the history and impact of sports but also the rich culture of Denmark. A major theme in my class has been learning about the good, the bad and the ugly of sports.
Diving into the World of Anti-Doping
One of the highlights of my course has been our visit to Anti-Doping Denmark (ADD), the national anti-doping agency in Denmark. This visit opened my eyes to the extensive efforts made to keep sports clean and fair. After learning about the deep-rooted issues of doping that go way back, it was interesting to see firsthand from professionals in the field how it’s managed.
ADD works to test athletes and develop educational programs that promote clean competition. Understanding these efforts has deepened my respect for and knowledge of the importance of upholding these values in international sports.
The Olympic Legacy
Another topic has been learning about the history of the Olympics and its significance beyond mere athletic prowess. The Olympics are a celebration of unity, peace and the human spirit. They serve as a platform for fostering international cooperation and understanding. Our discussions have delved into the origins of Olympic themes in past competitions as well as politics in sports.
We’ve also learned about the evolving role that the Olympics has taken in addressing global issues such as gender equality, environmental sustainability and geopolitical tensions. This perspective has widened my view of sports and encouraged me to investigate the deeper meanings behind many sports competitions, not just the Olympics.
Football Fever
One of the most exhilarating experiences has been joining the Danes in watching their national team compete in the Euro Championship. Football, or soccer as we call it in the U.S., seems to unify the country like no other activity.
The streets of Copenhagen come alive on match days, with fans repping their team colors, gathered in squares and parks to watch the games on big screens. The atmosphere is electric, filled with chants, cheers and the collective hope of a nation. This has made me feel like part of this country, and it has been fun to feel such a sense of belonging.
Exploring Copenhagen
Living in Copenhagen these past couple of weeks has been incredible. Our class boat tour provided a unique vantage point for this beautiful city. Cruising through the canals, we could take in the blend of historic architecture and modern design.
The colorful buildings of Nyhavn; the spires of the Church of Our Saviour; and the parks where we play soccer and sand volleyball or go swimming are just a few of my favorite parts of Copenhagen. Each neighborhood has its charm, and I don’t think it’s possible to run out of things to explore.
A Taste of Denmark
No cultural experience is complete without indulging in local cuisine. Danish food has been a delightful discovery. With an emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, I’ve savored traditional dishes like “smørrebrød,” or open-faced sandwiches and “frikadeller,” or meatballs.
The Danish concept of “hygge,” a sense of cozy contentment and friendship, is often reflected in their dining experiences. Whether it’s enjoying a leisurely meal at a café or grabbing a quick bite from a food market, there’s a comforting feeling to Danish food culture that I love and wish to bring back to the U.S.
Reflecting
My time in Copenhagen has been transformative, to say the least. Studying the intersection of sports and society has given me a deeper understanding of the global impact of athletic competitions.
As my study abroad journey continues, I look forward to more adventures, more learning and more moments I will never forget. I am so grateful for this experience that has grown me more than I could have imagined.
This post was contributed by Jada Fernandes, a Global Ambassador for Summer 2024. Jada is a junior sports management studies major studying abroad in Copenhagen, Denmark.
Very well written . You can become a journalist on travel. So happy you had a great time.