New university students in Denmark from the COVID-19 pandemic era are facing unique challenges as they enter the higher education system and participate in initiation trips and other social activities. According to Oliver Mølgaard Gertsen, chairperson of the Student Council at Aarhus University (Aarhus Universitet), these newcomers lack significant experience with school-related parties. During the pandemic restrictions, many young people did not have the same opportunities to engage in social events, which affects their ability to navigate university life today.

Their lack of experience may lead to uncertainty about behavior and conduct at these events and gatherings. “They have been limited by restrictions and have not had the chance to get to know themselves in this context. Many of them want to let loose now that they are starting their studies, which is why we focus on how to communicate about personal boundaries in our campaigns,” says Gertsen.

The growing awareness of parties and social rituals associated with the start of studies has already resulted in a decrease in incidents of boundary-crossing behavior at Aarhus University. However, the issue persists. A new survey conducted by Djøf Studerende, an organization for students in the social sciences and law, reveals that 12 percent of respondents have encountered activities during initiation events that they found to be boundary-crossing. Particularly concerning are activities involving alcohol, as 65 percent of the reported boundary-crossing experiences are linked to alcohol consumption.

Gertsen expresses concern that so many individuals continue to experience violations of their personal boundaries, but he does not believe that the solution lies in dictating alcohol consumption. “That would be paternalistic,” he states. Instead, he emphasizes that cultural change is best achieved through dialogue with the students themselves.

This year, 61,351 individuals have been enrolled in higher education institutions in Denmark, and many universities are organizing social events leading up to the official start of the academic year, which typically occurs around September 1st, to foster a sense of community among the new students.