Julie Jahnsen and Sofie Norager Nielsen, international exchange students from Aarhus University in Denmark, are discovering the joys of Houston and the different nature of American-style classes while attending South Texas College of Law Houston this spring.
Exchange students attend classes with traditional students and participate in activities on campus and across the region. Currently, seven exchange students are enrolled at South Texas Law: four from the University of East Anglia, United Kingdom, and three from Aarhus, including Jahnsen and Nielsen.
Nielsen has always wanted to study abroad in an English-speaking country, inspired by traveling with her family around the United States. After researching U.S. law schools offering an international exchange opportunity, STCL Houston appealed to her the most.
“I was welcomed by the program mentors and took part in orientation days with the new students,” Nielsen said. “I have made many great friends at the law school, and I have enjoyed the interaction between professors and students. I like that students do not just listen but actively participate in class discussions.”
International students come to South Texas Law for a variety of reasons. Jahnsen had heard positive feedback about the school from previous exchange students and had always wanted to visit Texas. “This combination made South Texas College of Law Houston an ideal choice for my exchange experience,” she said. “I hope to gain both academic knowledge and meaningful, long-lasting friendships through this experience.”
Nielsen has similar goals. “I hope to gain a better understanding of the U.S. judicial system and how it differs from the Danish system. And I also want to have a great time exploring everything Houston has to offer.”
Visiting students often note the differences in teaching styles in the U.S. versus their home countries. “In Denmark, participation in class is generally voluntary, so the Socratic method used here is quite different from what I am used to. Additionally, most of our classes at home are lecture-based, with limited student participation,” Jahnsen said.
Nielsen agreed, adding, “The biggest differences are the mandatory attendance and the cold calls [being called on in class to discuss a case].” But she also highlighted the strong support from faculty as they adjust to a new way of learning law. “The professors have been understanding of the fact that I am not used to everything being in English or to cold calls. For example, one professor assigned me a specific case for recitation so I could prepare in advance.”
Both students believe the exchange program is helping them gain insights into the law. “Experiencing different judicial systems is especially valuable as it highlights how laws and legal principles can vary across countries,” Nielsen said. “Seeing these differences encourages you to think more critically and view legal issues from new perspectives.”
They also described how South Texas Law and Houston have made them feel at home.
“Everyone seems willing to help in any way they can,” Nielsen said. Jahnsen added, “I have felt very welcomed on campus from the beginning. One thing that has stood out to me is how helpful and friendly people are. There is a strong sense of hospitality that I have really appreciated.”
The dynamic nature of Houston and the many student activities are annual draws for exchange students. “Outside of law school, my favorite experiences so far have been the Houston Rodeo, Super Bowl Sunday, the Barrister’s Ball, watching different sports games and, in general just exploring Houston and spending time with my friends,” Nielsen said.
The exchange students encourage South Texas Law students to experience other countries and cultures if they can. “It is important to travel abroad if you have the opportunity,” Nielsen said. “Engaging with other cultures helps you understand people from different backgrounds better.”
Jahnsen has traveled extensively and lived in France for a period of time. She said, “I believe international travel has a highly positive impact on a person’s mindset, as it broadens perspectives and deepens one’s understanding of different cultures and ways of thinking.”
To learn more about our International Programs, click here.
