I’ve been studying abroad in Copenhagen, Denmark for the last 8 weeks and have loved every minute of my experience here, but there are definitely a few things that America does better. Waterville may not be a European city, but it definitely has its merits, some that may even surprise you.
1. Fall–There’s nothing prettier than a Fall in Maine. Nothing. Ever. Especially a Mayflower Hill Fall. The quad looks perfectly painted, dotted with reds, yellows, and oranges. Yeah, that doesn’t happen here in Cope. You get the shorter days, colder mornings, and Fall chill in the air without that added bonus of the fall scenery. It sure feels like Fall, but looking around you could have fooled me.
2. Dining Halls—We all like to complain about the dining hall food, but trust me, cooking for yourself every meal is way overrated. There are only so many recipes in my repertoire, most of which include some form of chicken and salad. It gets old. Fast. And though Dana, Foss, and Bobs are far from glamorous, there’s something to be said for the convenience of walking there and having a hot meal waiting for you. Also, I have yet to find a make-your-own flatbread night in Copenhagen…just saying, and brunch on Sundays is much more of a struggle when you have to make it yourself.
3. Online TV—Netflix just isn’t the same here. Much better rom-com selection for one, but the TV is lacking, and xfinity or HBOgo doesn’t work here so it’s tough to Keep Up with The Kardashians from overseas.
4. Football—Here that means soccer and it’s huge, but not nearly as good as a chilly Fall day at home watching the Pats or the Mules dominate on the field. Although, soccer players are not terrible looking; think She’s The Man but with accents…definite Campus Cutie potential.
5. Wal-Mart—never thought I’d say that one, but it’s true. One stop shopping is not a very European concept and it’s a pretty convenient one.
6. Theme Parties/Loudness—Not that I had room in my suitcase, but my costume drawer is safely at home waiting for my return. Danes generally wear black, black, grey, and black, so color would be a little out of place, let alone a costume.
7. Starbucks—Don’t get me wrong, European coffee is kind of top notch, but what’s a basic girl to do without her Pumpkin Spice Lattes and Passion Tea Lemonades?
8. Spa Bagels—The Danes do bagels, but they’re not fluffy, toasted, and from the Spa. They’re pressed (which is actually kind of awesome), and used as bread rather than a meal in themselves. Not sure what the toaster status is in the Spa this semester, but I miss it whatever it is.
Regardless of the things that you forget are awesome about Mayflower Hill, going abroad is the best experience ever, so do it! You wont regret it, and all these things will be right where you left them when you return.