Siddhida Pandya
About My Study Abroad Program
Major/Minor: Statistics and Data Science with an Information Science Minor
Program: Danish Institute for Study-Abroad
Location: Copenhagen, Denmark
Email: siddhida@unc.edu
Term: Summer 2024
Why did you choose to study abroad and how did you select your program?
I decided to study abroad because I wanted to have a college experience that really forced me out of my comfort zone and pushed me to become more independent. I wanted a location that was safe and easy, yet going to give me an enriching experience. I decided on Climate Change in Copenhagen because the conversation around climate change in one of the greenest cities in the world was a privilege that I could not pass up.
What did you learn about yourself?
I learned that I am way stronger than I originally thought. I am able to do difficult things, to resolve issues as they may arise, and able to navigate through tough situations independently and seamlessly.
What is one of your favorite memories from your program?
One of my favorite memories was going to Mons Klint, which are gorgeous cliffs with beautiful blue water. It looked unreal and the beaches had bright white sand. It was picture-esque and made me realize studying abroad was so worth it!
What advice do you have for future study abroad students?
You have the strength in you to persevere through difficult situations. Sit with the discomfort and embrace it, because you can learn so much from this situation. You're doing a totally out of your comfort zone thing, and it's not going to be completely seamless. Take things as they come, ask for help, and form a community! You have so many people around you, as well as the strength within yourself.
How do you identify?
Student of color, First Generation College Student, Scholarship Recipient
Could you share any experiences where your identity played a role in your time abroad?
Honestly, being abroad made me more comfortable with my identity. Realizing that I am uniquely me, especially in a predominantly white region like Scandinavia, I realized that my race is something I treasure, but it will not come in the way of things I want to do.
Is there any advice you would give to other students who share your identity?
Do not let your background hold you back. It just might be the thing you learn to embrace more whilst being abroad.
Memories
