UCL School of Management student Carolin Geiger recently returned to London from a summer school programme at Copenhagen Business School (CBS). 

In this blog, Carolin reflects on the enriching cultural and academic experiences she received and explains how they not only broadened her perspectives, but also equipped her with the essential skills needed to excel in an increasingly interconnected and global work environment.

Carolin, an MSc Management student, offers valuable insights into the benefits that studying abroad can on both personal and academic development.

How was your experience at copenhagen business school?

My experience at Copenhagen Business School (CBS) was very enriching. I participated in the two-week course “New Product Development and Project Management,” which provided a thorough understanding of the product development cycle. We helped a local start-up with mobile game development and for that, we collaborated in teams of three. The process began with market research and customer research, which we validated through interviews to identify customer needs. Next, we moved on to idea generation and selection, again incorporating customer interviews. Finally, we developed these ideas and created business plan concepts, which we presented. This process culminated in our group presenting our refined work on Pitch Day. The small class size of 15 people made the learning experience engaging and enjoyable.

What enhanced my experience was the excellent organisation for international students. CBS offered an extra Exchange Social Programme, which included various activities designed to help us connect and immerse ourselves in Danish culture. For instance, there was an introductory meet-and-greet evening that allowed us to get to know each other in a relaxed setting. We also enjoyed an evening at the beach, a dance event where we learned traditional Danish dances, and a day trip to Møns Klint. One of the highlights was a boat tour that provided stunning views of Copenhagen from the water. These activities, along with the well-organised introductory events, helped us quickly integrate and made the experience memorable from the very beginning.

What was cbs like as a university?

CBS is a well-regarded university situated in the vibrant heart of Copenhagen. It boasts multiple campuses, each equipped with modern and well-maintained facilities. The professors at CBS are highly motivated and bring a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to their teaching. 

During my stay, I had access to excellent amenities such as a state-of-the-art library which greatly enhanced my study experience. The university’s central location also means that it is well-connected to the rest of the city, making it easy to explore and enjoy Copenhagen’s unique blend of historical charm and modern living.

what did you get up to while you were there?

While in Copenhagen, I made the most of my time by exploring the city’s diverse neighbourhoods and landmarks. On the first day, we walked along the harbour promenade, visited Amalienborg Palace where the king resides, and continued to the Castellet and the iconic Little Mermaid statue. Christianshavn was another highlight, with its beautiful canal streets lined with houseboats.

We also visited Reffen, a popular street food market where locals swim and relax in good weather. The city center, including Rosenborg Castle, offered plenty of historical and cultural sites to explore. Other neighbourhoods like Frederiksberg, Nørrebro, Vesterbro, and Islands Brygge each had their unique charm. Islands Brygge was particularly memorable with its large public viewing area for the UEFA Euro 2020 matches. One day, we even took a day trip to Malmö, crossing the impressive bridge and enjoying a different city atmosphere.

name three highlights from your trip

Reflecting on my time in Copenhagen, there were several standout moments that made the experience truly memorable:

• Pitch Day: This event was the culmination of our two-week course, where we presented our hard work to the start-up. It was very rewarding to see our efforts come to fruition and to receive valuable feedback from industry professionals.
• Enjoying the beautiful weather in Nyhavn: Sitting along the colourful houses, soaking up the sun with friends, was a perfect way to relax and enjoy Copenhagen’s charm. The vibrant atmosphere and picturesque scenery made it a favourite spot for unwinding.
• Real-world collaboration: Another highlight was the opportunity to collaborate with a real start-up. Unlike purely theoretical exercises, we worked on solving actual challenges faced by the company. This hands-on experience was invaluable, as it allowed us to apply our knowledge to real-world problems.

has the exchange also supported your personal development?

Absolutely, the exchange programme at CBS significantly supported my personal development. One of the most enriching aspects was the opportunity to interact with students from diverse cultural backgrounds. Collaborating with international peers on projects and participating in cultural exchanges broadened my perspective and enhanced my ability to work in multicultural environments.

The experience also helped me develop greater adaptability and resilience. Navigating a new city, managing coursework, and engaging in various activities challenged me to step out of my comfort zone and embrace new experiences. These skills are invaluable, and I now feel more confident in handling uncertain situations and thriving in diverse contexts.

what advice would you give to students who are considering studying abroad through their programme at ucl?

I highly recommend taking advantage of the study abroad opportunities offered by UCL. The application process is straightforward and well worth the effort. Studying abroad provides a unique chance to immerse yourself in a new culture, connect with international peers, and gain valuable insights into different academic and professional environments.

These experiences not only enrich your personal growth but also enhance your academic and career prospects. The skills and perspectives gained from such programs are invaluable in today’s globalised world. If you are considering studying abroad, I encourage you to apply and make the most of this transformative opportunity.

Find out more about the MSc Finance programme at UCL School of Management