Nora’s Language Leap: Mastering Danish at UCplus
Embarking on a New Chapter, with a background in multiple languages, Nora Sørensen, takes on Danish at UCplus Language Centre in the heart of Copenhagen. She gives a great insight into how she tackles the challenges of relocating and learning her fifth language.
How quickly did you start learning Danish?
“After having spent twenty years in London, my husband, who is Danish, and I decided to relocate to Denmark. We unpacked our boxes in October 2023, and I knew I wanted to start learning Danish as soon as possible, because I want to work here, I want to understand the culture, and I want to be able to communicate with people.”
What led you to choose UCplus as your language centre?
“I was out walking one day, and we happened to walk past UCplus in Gyldenløvesgade, and so we just went in and inquired at the reception. They were really helpful, and it just felt right, so I started on Module 1 at the end of January.”
What is it like attending language lessons at an established language centre?
“I am really glad that I am attending classes at an established language school. There is a very friendly environment here, and the teachers are really good, and by coming to classes I get to talk a lot of Danish. In fact, our teacher really insists that we use every opportunity we have to speak Danish, so not only do we speak Danish to each other in class, but we continue in the breaks. And I can feel that even though we are all beginners, we can also learn from each other, and we are able to support and encourage each other. We come from different corners of the world; from Spain, Indonesia, the Netherlands and so on, but we are all in the same situation, and we are all doing our best.
I come to lessons twice a week, and right at the beginning I thought that it was going to be too much, and that I would not be able to manage, but the classes and everything is very well structured, and now I can see that things are going in the right direction.”
What advice would you give to other expats about learning Danish?
“I have met other expats who didn’t start learning Danish from day one, and they have regretted it, so I am very determined to stay focused and to prioritize it.
For me learning Danish is also an opportunity to get to know Danes. It takes courage not to be overly self-conscious when you go shopping and want to try speaking Danish, because you worry about your pronunciation… I have told myself that I must do it. And I insist on keeping on in Danish, even though many offer to speak English. I keep on going and I never lose hope, because learning a new language is actually a fantastic experience, because not only am I learning my fifth language, at the same time I am also learning so many things about Danish culture, and I really feel that I am expanding my horizon every day.”
The Official Danish Education helps you become proficient in Danish
UCplus offers the three official Danish language courses, which grant you access to official exams and a good start in Denmark. The education is offered at three levels, and each level consists of six modules. You will be offered to start at the level that matches the number of years of schooling you have and your qualifications.