Andrea Thorsen denied pedagogy study despite empty seats

Andrea Thorsen, 23, has been rejected from the pedagogy programme in Aarhus even though more than 2,400 places remain unfilled nationwide, according to the Union of Early Childhood and Youth Educators.

VIA University College, which runs the programme, confirmed her qualifications were strong, but her standard rejection letter gave no reason for the decision. The programme has vacant spots in Viborg, Ikast and Holstebro, though not in Aarhus.

Thorsen, who currently works at Magasin in Aarhus, had planned to begin studies in the city with her partner, who was accepted. She said the rejection left her feeling like a failure and forced her to consider relocating for the programme.

“The dream was to become a pedagogue, but just as much to study in Aarhus—grab a beer after class with fellow students,” she said. “I could probably find a good community elsewhere. It’s just hard when I moved here to build a life.”

She spent her gap years travelling, attending folk high school and working in a kindergarten, which solidified her interest in the field.