Comparative Politics with a focus on Political Economy
My last name is difficult to pronounce, as it is of Danish origin. The “H” is silent, the “d” is soft, the “dkj” is confusing, and “æ” is a unique Danish letter. I have met many variations on the name at Harvard, and the confusion in people’s eyes when reading it is always amusing. One phonetic guide is: “vid-care”. However, I am no linguist.
Even without the last name, no one is in doubt that I’m Danish, as I mention the country every two sentences. What is less well known is that I am also French. I bring France up less often, as I do not understand it very well. I aim to live in Paris during my PhD to rectify this shortcoming. That will also give me access to a slightly more vibrant culinary scene than what we can find around campus, although Asaro has elevated the game.
Finally, I am also an American citizen, having been born in the great state of New York. I spent my first eight years in the States, followed by one year in France before moving to Denmark. If I take my PhD at the pace of the average comparativist, I will have lived as long in the US as I’ve lived in Denmark. That is a strange thought. Time will tell where I’ll be afterwards.
Year 2
AY 2025-26