Emily spoke to the club about her experiences in the U.S. and her home country.  Emily is from Denmark.  

 

The Danish flag is called Dannebrog.  It is said to be one of the oldest flags in the world.

 

Denmark is small and would fit inside of Washington.  It is flat but with some hills.  The biggest mountain is not more than 600 feet.  There are a lot of islands, 70 are inhabited. 

 

Denmark is a kingdom and is part of Scandinavia.  Emily lives about three hours from Copenhagen.

 

507 million people live in Denmark.  1.3 million people live in or around Copenhagen.

 

The Danish language includes three more letters than English.  Everyone in Denmark learns English and German.  They start in kindergarten.

 

Denmark is the world’s oldest monarchy with 54 monarchs stretching over 1,000 years.  Denmark has a parliament but the queen signs all the laws.  The constitution was signed in 1849.  The parliament has 179 members located in Copenhagen.

 

The most practiced religion is Christianity.  Automatically enrolled in the Danish state church when born.   There is less than 5% attendance at church.  They typically only attend church on special occasions.  Danes are very receptive to other religions. 

 

Danish society values home, happiness, and having a good time with family and friends.  Denmark has been ranked the happiest nation worldwide.  They love to joke and use sarcasm.  Education and work are important.  Being on time and organized is important but being at home and with friends and family when not working is very important. 

 

5 fun facts about Denmark

Emily has dogs, cats, and chickens.  She has a sister and brother.  Emily lives in the countryside and enjoys nature, school, work, and friends.  She hunts with her father and has a passion for bird hunting. 

 

Emily works at an animal shelter in Denmark.  When she is not working Emily likes spending time with her friends.   Emily has wanted to be an exchange student for as long as she can remember.  She thinks everybody should try it.

 

Emily has always thought of America as a big country with a lot of opportunities.  To her, all states are like little countries.  Denmark’s driving age is 18.  She is scared to see 16 year olds driving here! 

 

There is more processed food in America than Denmark.  They pay a lot more taxes but there is free health care and school and one year of paid vacation when you have a baby.

 

Emily has gone to Canada, Leavenworth, skiing on Mt. Baker, and other great experiences since she has been here.  She likes that sports are connected to school.  When she returns home she will start high school since primary school goes until 9^th grade.  Most students take a gap year after primary school.  That is what she is doing now.  Emily is thankful for the opportunity and everyone being so kind to her.

 

If you are doing an event please think about including her in your event, vacation, etc.  She is here until mid-July.