Last semester, Day packed up for Danmarks Tekniske Universitet (DTU) in Denmark not knowing anyone else who was going. He walked into an entirely new culture solo and left with lifelong friendships, a stronger sense of self and a fresh outlook on what engineering can look like beyond the U.S.

“Studying abroad at DTU has, so far been the best decision I made during my undergraduate studies,” Day said. “It’s not just culture shock that makes it memorable. It’s the people, the unexpected moments and how much you learn about yourself in the process.”

At DTU, Day found himself in a system built on trust and autonomy. Courses often met once a week for extended blocks with optional exercises and minimal homework. Professors treated students like colleagues. Everyone was on a first-name basis and students were expected to take responsibility for their own learning—something Day found both freeing and challenging.

“The coursework puts the responsibility on you,” he said. “But if you keep up, the load feels lighter than you’d expect.”

Outside the classroom, Day embraced Denmark’s bike-friendly culture, explored forests and coastlines and said yes to unexpected adventures—like volunteering at a vineyard with classmates in exchange for lunch, a spur of the moment decision that ended up being a highlight of his trip.

One cultural value that stuck with him was friluftsliv, a Danish word for the idea of reconnecting with nature. “There’s green space everywhere and the country is so safe and clean. It changed the way you live day to day,” he said.

Looking back, Day is glad he chose a program where he didn’t know anyone going in. It pushed him to be present, open to new people and fully immersed in the experience.

“Say yes to things. That’s how you make the best memories,” he said.