Elon student receives study abroad immersion award

Junior psychology major Alex Ward received the Outstanding Immersion Award from the Danish Institute for Study Abroad this past fall.

Alex with his visiting family, a local family with whom students are invited to share meals and social times.

Elon student Alex Ward received the Outstanding Immersion Award from the Danish Institute for Study Abroad in recognition of his outstanding commitment to immersion into Danish culture during his study abroad experience in Copenhagen, Denmark this past fall.

Alex, a junior psychology major, took full advantage of the resources available on-site to enhance and develop his experience. Alex joined a DIS Buddy Network and attended all of their events, including a potluck dinner, canal tour, FC Copenhagen soccer game, Christmas night at Tivoli and traditional Danish Christmas lunch (Julefrokost). Alex also spent quality time with his visiting family, going to museums, playing video games with the kids and even spending Halloween with them. He also participated in a variety of community events, such as the Copenhagen Culture Night, DHL 5K Relay and a bike trip to Dyrehaven, which he organized himself.

Alex and some classmates on a study tour in Western Denmark with their positive psychology class.

Alex says his best experience was his practicum for his Postive Psychology program where he volunteered at SmileHullet, an afterschool institution for kids aged 5-14. He spent over 30 hours there, working with the kids and teachers and learned a lot about nonverbal communication and the differences between Danish and American childcare.

The Global Education Center congratulates Alex on his achievement and for making the most of the opportunities that study abroad presents!

Photos submitted by Alex Ward, ‘14
Julie Scott of the Danish Institute for Study Abroad contributed to this article.