My First Year in Copenhagen: A Journey of Challenges and Growth

 It’s been a year since I moved to Copenhagen in September 2023, and what a year it has been! From navigating a new city to balancing my studies and work, this experience has been a mixture of highs and lows. Through it all, I’ve gained invaluable insights into the reality of living in Denmark.

One of the biggest challenges in Copenhagen is the housing crisis. Many people live in shared apartments - three couples often sharing a three-room flat with one toilet and a small kitchen. The conditions aren’t always ideal, with some tenants renting rooms at high prices while providing very minimal facilities. Stories of overcrowded living spaces, lack of basic supplies like toilet paper, and disputes between tenants are not uncommon. The rental market is tough, and finding affordable, decent housing is one of the first struggles expats face when moving here.

If you're looking for cheaper housing, you may have to settle for areas far from the city center where public transportation is less frequent. You might end up walking long distances from the nearest bus stop unless you have your own car. On the other hand, if you’re willing to pay a higher rent, you can often find housing more quickly and in more convenient locations.

Finding a job, especially as a student or newcomer, is one of the biggest hurdles here. Many of us begin with survival jobs; positions that pay low wages but help cover basic expenses. Unfortunately, contractors often exploit this need, sometimes paying less than promised or delaying payments for months. The job market is competitive, and in some cases, people are hesitant to help within their own communities unless there’s some benefit in return. This adds to the struggle of securing fair work. When it comes to official, career-focused jobs, the challenge is even more. In Denmark, many job openings are not publicly advertised; instead, hiring often happens through internal networks and referrals. For newcomers without a professional network in Denmark, it’s difficult to access these opportunities. This system makes finding a good job especially hard, as you’re competing in a hidden job market without knowing the right people.

The CPR (Civil Registration Number) system, essential for accessing basic services like healthcare and banking, is another area where people face issues. Many use their CPR number as leverage in business dealings, charging high fees just to help others obtain one. This creates additional stress for newcomers who are already overwhelmed by the bureaucratic processes.

Amidst the struggles, there are many free-stuff groups in Copenhagen where you can find things like kitchen supplies, beds, and furniture. These groups are a lifesaver for people on tight budgets. However, you need to be patient, as many others are also looking for these free items, and it can take time to get what you need. Additionally, the cost of moving things is high, and you have to be cautious of issues like bed bugs. For those who prefer a more reliable option, there are second-hand stores like Røde Kors and Genbrug, where you can buy household items at affordable prices.

As a master's student at Roskilde University, I’ve had to juggle coursework, projects, assignments, and finding a job. The academic system here is demanding, with real-life projects and data analysis being part of the curriculum. It’s difficult to balance studies, work, and personal life, especially when you’re also managing tuition fees and other expenses. The winter months add to the challenge, with the cold weather affecting mental health and overall well-being.

One of the highlights of my academic journey was participating in a pitch competition through the RUC Open Entrepreneurship Lab, which was part of my Innovation Management course. My group made it to the finals, and it was a thrilling experience that allowed us to apply our ideas in a real-world setting. It gave me a sense of achievement amidst the challenges of balancing everything.

Through all of these struggles, one of the most important sources of strength is the support from my spouse. It makes a huge difference to be able to share everything sadness, joy, happiness, and struggles; with someone who understands and is going through the same experiences. Having that emotional support allows you to manage everything together, making the tough times a bit more bearable.

At the same time, I’ve had to balance life here while staying connected to my family back in Bangladesh. Taking care of your parents and maintaining that relationship while being so far away adds another layer of emotional challenge. Yet, knowing that you have your spouse’s support makes this balancing act more manageable.

While managing my studies and work, I also had the opportunity to volunteer at TECHBBQ 2024, the largest tech event in the Nordics. This was my first volunteering experience in Copenhagen, although I had done plenty of volunteer work back in Bangladesh. The event was an incredible experience—I met some amazing people and gained insights into the vibrant tech scene here. Volunteering not only helped me build connections but also gave me a sense of fulfillment outside of academics and work.

During my first year in Copenhagen, I only had the chance to visit Sweden, but it was a rewarding experience. I explored Stockholm and Uppsala, two beautiful cities rich with history and culture. The trip was a refreshing break from the daily grind and offered a glimpse into life in another part of Scandinavia. The beauty and vibrancy of these cities made me appreciate the proximity of different cultures and experiences while living in Europe. It was also a reminder of how much there is to explore within a short distance from Denmark.

One thing I’ve learned is that having a good command of English is crucial. From communicating via email and phone to understanding official documents, it’s important to be self-reliant. Without English, you end up depending on others to explain everything, adding to your frustration. Whether it’s registering for housing (CPR), obtaining a tax card, or setting up a bank account, being able to handle these things independently makes life much easier.

Accessing healthcare isn’t always straightforward either. Booking a doctor’s appointment can take 15–20 days, depending on the situation. This long wait time can be frustrating, especially for families with children. If you’re moving with your family, there are even more responsibilities to manage, making the process even more overwhelming.

Despite the challenges, not everything is bleak. I’ve met some genuinely kind people who are willing to help without expecting anything in return. These individuals offer fair rent, pay wages on time, and provide valuable advice without taking advantage of others. They’ve made my experience a bit more bearable and remind me that kindness still exists, even in difficult situations. I’ve also had the pleasure of meeting some great colleagues and friends along the way, making this journey less isolating. 

Moving to a new city without family or friends is incredibly tough. The emotional and mental strain of being away from loved ones is something you can’t fully understand until you experience it yourself. You may earn money eventually, but the time to truly enjoy life is limited. Sure, you might take a short trip to another European country, but the daily grind leaves little room for leisure.

In the end, while Copenhagen has its challenges, it’s also a beautiful, clean, and safe city with efficient public transportation and helpful people. You just need to be prepared for the hurdles you’ll face, from housing to jobs, and have the resilience to push through. For those considering the move, come prepared, be self-sufficient, and most importantly, don’t lose hope - because every tough experience is also an opportunity to grow.