Office of Study Abroad

Profile: Ben Maffa '21

Major/minor: English

Semester abroad: Fall 2019

Study Abroad Program: DIS/Copenhagen

Reason you chose this program: Heard great things about it from past students, safe city, English-speaking, good biking.

Favorite classes: Music Production, Sports Psychology

How did you incorporate your Brandeis areas of study into your abroad experience? I studied music production at the Royal Danish Academy of Music — something that Brandeis does not offer, so I was able to build comfort in multiple domains. I have been focused on hip-hop production since I was 13, but never got the chance to study it in an academic setting. The class at RDAM allowed me to invest time in my creative outlet, while also offering a unique environment to meet Danes and other European students passionate about music. I still keep in touch with my classmates and even collaborate on projects internationally!

Housing situation: Homestay

What are some parts of your identity that you thought about while considering study abroad that other students may want to talk to you about? I find myself as someone who needs peace and nature and Denmark offered a small, intimate city with a sturdy public transportation system which allowed for easy travel within the Denmark.

Best memory: Composing and performing at my music academy, which partnered with DIS.

Greatest challenge: Losing my backpack in the first week, maintaining social energy on group trips.

What you know now that you didn’t know before: The greatest gift in life is building new friendships.

Fact about Denmark that you think people would be surprised to learn: It rains everyday.