From Chennai to Augustenborg: Priya is making Denmark her home
Priya moved to Denmark from India in 2019, and ever since, she’s been dedicated to learning Danish and becoming part of her local community. Through UCplus, she’s studied the language, practices it in her daily life, and actively participates in local clubs and activities – both for her own sake and her family’s.
From a bustling city to a quiet community on Als
Priya, her husband, and their two daughters relocated from the vibrant city of Chennai to the small town of Sønderborg when her husband was offered a position as a project manager at Danfoss. Seeking a more peaceful family life, they settled in a quiet neighborhood in Augustenborg – the only non-Danish family in the area.
“It’s cozy here, and it gives me a chance to practice Danish with neighbors and local friends,” Priya says. “We have coffee together, chat, and they’ve been great at sharing Danish traditions with me.”
She completed her Danish language course with UCplus online, which allowed her to balance her studies with work and family life. Although English is the main language at her workplace, she was determined to learn Danish.
“It makes a big difference being able to speak Danish – I can chat with my colleagues even outside of meetings,” she says.
On the path to citizenship
Priya and her family have embraced life in Denmark so fully that they’ve now set their sights on becoming Danish citizens. Today, Priya is taking the citizenship test – a meaningful step toward that goal. For her, it’s not just about the passport; it’s about belonging and understanding the country she calls home.
“I think it’s important to really understand how Denmark became the country it is today,” she explains.
While preparing for the test, Priya is also actively involved with the Danish Swimming Federation. Her daughters swim competitively, and Priya, who never learned to swim in India, has taken up swimming herself. She’s now training to become a lane and turn judge so she can support her daughters and be involved in their competitions.
Advice for others new to Denmark
There are many reasons why Priya and her family have settled in so well: they’ve felt genuinely welcomed, they enjoy the nature and changing seasons, and they especially appreciate the Danish school system – particularly how it motivates children to learn and includes parents in their child’s development.
Her advice to others is simple:
“Learning Danish is really important. It’s helped me meet new people and feel like I belong here.”
Learn Danish at UCplus and open the door to new opportunities
Priya’s motivation to learn Danish and her willingness to keep taking on new challenges has opened many doors for her and her family.
You can also give yourself a good start in Denmark, and UCplus will help you on your way.
We offer the three official Danish Education Programs, and you will start at the level that matches your years of schooling and qualifications.