Describe - Interpret - Evaluate

1. DESCRIBE: Think of one episode that has left you confused or that you think was strange/different. Describe the object or situation in concrete, observable terms. What happened in the interaction? What was said? What did you see? What did you feel at the moment?

Making this task seemed rather difficult as Danish behavior is very close to Finns. However, one thing has been different in comparison to how Finns communicate. During the conversation one may touch someones shoulder or back for a moment. Another student came to talk to me and touched my shoulder. She greeted me at the same time. It felt a little bit strange. Because in Finland we usually have our own personal space and we dont touch each other during the conversation.

2. INTERPRET: Think of possible explanations (interpretations) for what you observed or experienced. From your cultural perspective, try to explain why you think this situation or experience occurred? Try to find at least 3 different interpretations of the interaction or occurrence. What cultural information have you used to produce these interpretations?  

I think that a person just wanted to be friendly because we were both students. it can also be a habit to touching someone's shoulder or arm when talking or making a point. Maybe Danes are more open than the Finns. In Denmark touching during conversations is a sign of intimacy, so if you are very close with someone so maybe she think that we are good friends. I think also that personal space depends on how well you know the person. And I had been discussing with her several times before.

3. EVALUATE: Evaluate what you observed or experienced. What positive or negative feelings do you have regarding the situation? Consider how you might feel if you were a member of the host culture and held the dominant cultural values and beliefs?

First it felt a little strange, but when I thought of it I realized that she wanted to be just kind. I also heard from other students similar experiences and I thought it was fine. If I had been a Danish I think it would have been more familiar to me. On the other hand, if I had not known this person, it would still have seemed strange. I red that touching during conversations is a sign of intimacy, so if you are very close with someone, it is normal, otherwise it can be construed as insincere, invasive or out of place.  

 Pictures from the lake called Søndersø.

Letter Home- Maija Kukkola

1. In what country and University are you studying? /
Where are you doing your internship?
 I am at the moment doing my internship in Denmark in a town called Viborg. Its a quite small city in central Jutland.

Viborg Cathedral.

2. In what Study program are you studying at Centria?
 I am studying nursing and this is my final year Im probably graduating during this summer.

3. What are the courses like at the host University? or What has your work placement been like?
I am working in dialysis ward which patients has kidney diseases and receive dialysis treatment. This is very different and interesting job. I have learned a lot of new things.

4. Describe the study culture? / What is the corporate culture like?
Working culture in the hospital is very similar compared to one which we have in Finland.
In the ward there is being used working method where every patient has their own nurse. In there ward there are working only nurses and doctors so there are no helpers or practical nurses.

6. Please describe what the everyday life is like in your host country? What do you like in particular?
Most of my day goes to work at the hospital. On weekends I have more time to spend on the city and outdoors. Viborg is a small town, but there are other cities close to it. Aalborg has a Viking burial ground and a museum where I would like to visit if I have time. Life here is quite similar to Finland.  I have noticed that the Danes eat a lot of bread, and on Sundays they spend time with their family as we do in Finland. 

7. What has been challenging? Why? 
The most challenging is definitely the interaction with the patients. It is really difficult to understand and speak Danish. Little by little the patients in the department have become more familiar and some of them have dared to speak English to me. It has been nice to notice. The Swedish language skills also help a bit in communication. The Danes often downplay their knowledge of English although the majority of Danes speaks excellent English. 

At the beginning there were also problems when our suitcases were lost. Fortunately, the nice tutors helped us find the necessary goods in the stores. It is important that there are people who can help when you need it.

8. What has been the highlight of your exchange so far?
I have talked with new people and been researching Viborg surroundings. At the end of the month we also have a food event with other international students. I look forward to it!

 
 Viborg centrum on sunday.