I only spent three weeks studying abroad in Copenhagen, but coming back to the U.S. still felt surprisingly different. I didn’t expect such a short trip to shift my perspective so much, but it did in small, subtle ways that hit me once I got home.
In Copenhagen, life felt calmer. People weren’t in a constant rush. Biking was the main mode of transportation, and the city felt safe, clean, and deeply community oriented. There was a sense of trust in the government, in public transportation, even among strangers. It was refreshing.
Back in the States, I immediately noticed the contrast. The roads were louder. The conversations, more rushed and competitive. I missed the slower pace of Copenhagen mornings, the emphasis on simplicity, and how even strangers seemed to value personal space and quiet.
What surprised me most was how quickly I had adapted to Copenhagen’s rhythms and how strange it felt to leave them behind. I started to question things I used to consider normal: Why do we drive everywhere? Why is tipping so confusing? Why do we glorify being busy?
Even though I was only abroad for a few weeks, it was enough to shake me out of my usual routines and make me see home differently. The culture shock of returning wasn’t overwhelming, but it was real — a quiet reminder that even short experiences abroad can leave a lasting imprint on how you see the world and yourself.
