Los Angeles Native Faith Klijian Wins Denmark’s Prestigious Danish Government Scholarship to Pursue her MSc at the University of Copenhagen

My name is Faith Klijian, and I’m from Los Angeles, California. I’m currently a graduate candidate at Københavns Universitet (University of Copenhagen) in Denmark, where I’m pursuing a Master of Science in Security Risk Management. I’m also earning a Graduate Certificate Credential in Statecraft, with a specialization in National Security Affairs, from the Institute of World Politics in Washington, D.C.

I decided to pursue this field because of my interest in both national and international security and defense strategy. My ultimate goal is to work within an intergovernmental organization, helping contribute to diplomatic solutions and fostering global cooperation through peace.

Danish Government Scholarship Details

I am a recipient of the Danish Government Scholarship, which is administered by the Ministry of Higher Education and Science under CF. Danish Ministerial Order no. 869. This scholarship is highly competitive and is awarded to only about two to three international graduate students outside the EU/EEA from the program’s entire faculty and department. This scholarship is merit-based, covering the entire cost of tuition for two academic years and providing a monthly stipend for 22 months to cover basic living expenses.

Were You Offered Any Other Scholarships?

Yes, I was offered another scholarship. I was a recipient of the University of Helsinki Half Tuition Scholarship from the University of Helsinki Scholarship Program in Finland. This scholarship is given to accepted international students who show exceptional academic merit and a strong desire to pursue a Master’s degree at the University of Helsinki. I declined this scholarship in favor of the full Danish Government Scholarship. I was further offered a merit-based endowment from Georgetown University as an accepted student for a graduate program in their Department of Government. I declined this offer and placement as well.

Educational Background

I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Criminology, Law, and Society and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychological Science from the University of California, Irvine. My minors were in International Studies and Sociology. My educational background gave me a strong interdisciplinary foundation in social sciences, which is important for my current studies. My criminology and law studies gave me a better understanding of legal frameworks and societal structures, while psychology helped me comprehend human behavior and motivation, both of which I find beneficial for predictive analysis in my field. Further, my minor in international studies gave me a wider overview of international relations and geopolitical issues, which directly complements my graduate program. My minor in sociology assisted me in understanding group behavior and how it influences informed decision-making. I also completed an exchange semester at Københavns Universitet (University of Copenhagen) in 2023, which is what encouraged me to apply and attend the university again, this time, for graduate school.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to the University of Copenhagen?

I began my application process by researching universities that offered programs aligned with my interests in security studies and international affairs. I mainly used university websites, program brochures, and academic ranking sites. For scholarships, I looked for opportunities specifically for international students and those tied to government funding or certain academic departments. I did not take any standardized tests, as many of the programs I applied to did not require them.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to the Scholarships?

The Danish Government Scholarship does not require a separate application, as a graduate student from outside the EU/EEA is automatically considered when applying to a specific and eligible program.

My strategy for applying to the University of Helsinki Half Tuition Scholarship was to show a compelling profile of myself and my aspirations. I made sure to tailor my personal statement to the institution, explaining why I was a good fit and how I could contribute to their academic community. My academic record and extensive research experience were also key part of my application. I made sure to get strong letters of recommendation from professors who knew my work well, too.

How Is Your Experience at the University of Copenhagen?

My experience at Københavns Universitet (University of Copenhagen) has been incredibly fulfilling, both as a study abroad student and now as a Master’s candidate. The university has a very welcoming and inclusive atmosphere. As an exchange student, the semester I spent there was a significant factor in my decision to return for my graduate studies. The campus is beautiful, and the city itself is a wonderful place to live and study, offering a great balance of academic rigor and cultural immersion.

How Do You Rate the University of Copenhagen Academically and Why?

I would rate Københavns Universitet (University of Copenhagen) very highly academically. The university is a top-tier research institution, and the quality of the faculty and curriculum is exceptional. The professors are not only experts in their fields, but also truly passionate about teaching and engaging with students. The academic environment is one that motivates critical thinking and independent research. For example, my experience as a student researcher there during my undergraduate semester was very valuable, as it gave me realistic experience in a collaborative, international setting. The university's strong ties to various research institutions and government bodies in Denmark and globally further provide critical opportunities for students in my field.

How Does the University of Copenhagen Support International Students?

Københavns Universitet (University of Copenhagen) provides excellent support for international students. They have dedicated international offices that help with everything from admissions and visas to housing and student life. During my first time there, I found the university staff and my professors to be extremely helpful and responsive. Additionally, the university hosts social events and has a huge network of student organizations that make it easy to meet people and integrate into the university community. The university's scholarship programs, like the Danish Government Scholarship, which I received, also show a strong dedication to attracting students from around the world.

Are Your Classes Conducted in English or Danish?

For Master's programs, particularly in fields like Security Risk Management, classes are conducted in English. The university offers a wide range of Master's programs taught entirely in English, which makes it very accessible to international students.

Would Potential Students Have Any Problems Academically, Not Knowing Danish?

Based on my experience, potential students would not have any significant academic problems not knowing the native language. Since all of the coursework, lectures, and exams for English-taught programs are in English, the language of instruction is not a barrier to academic success. However, I would recommend learning some basic Danish. While not needed for academics, it can greatly improve your day-to-day life and cultural experience in Copenhagen. Danes are also very proficient in English, so communication is generally not an issue, but making an effort to learn the native language shows respect and can help you connect with locals on a deeper and more courteous level.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

I believe my application stood out due to my diverse research background, as well as my genuine interest in these fields. I had the opportunity to work with a renowned professor at the University of California, Irvine, on a series of research projects that focused on global peace and nuclear security. This experience, which included analyzing historical documents and declassified government information, helped demonstrate a strong practical commitment to my area of study. My experience teaching and mentoring also showed my leadership and communication skills, which are valuable in any professional setting. I think the combination of my academic achievements, relevant research, and leadership skills made for a well-rounded and impressive application.

Another factor might be that I have studied at Københavns Universitet (University of Copenhagen) previously as an exchange student. This experience likely demonstrated my dedication to pursuing further higher education in Denmark and the wider Nordic region.

What Would You Have Done Differently If You Were Going Through the Process Again?

If I were to go through the process again, I would have started even earlier with my research on different programs and institutions, particularly international universities. This would have given me more time to fully understand all the requirements and connect with faculty members at prospective universities. I would also have spent additional time networking with professionals already working in my desired field to gain more guidance on my career path. I would also try to trust myself and the process more, as I often found myself feeling easily overwhelmed and stressed about potential offers from universities.

What Advice Would You Give Those Looking to Apply for a Similar Scholarship?

My advice for those applying for a similar scholarship is to focus on three areas: academics, research, and personal statements. First, focus on maintaining a strong GPA and challenging yourself with rigorous courses. Second, seek out research opportunities, even as an undergraduate student. This hands-on experience has been invaluable to me and shows a genuine commitment to your field. Finally, write a compelling personal statement that tells a cohesive story. It should connect your past experiences, your current goals, and how the program and scholarship will help you achieve your aims. Don't be afraid to show off your unique experiences, even if they seem unrelated at first, as they can set you apart from other applicants. Best of luck!