Meet your colleague: Helle Jung Andersen

Can you explain what your work involves?

I work broadly within audiology, particularly with hearing aid treatment, measurement methods and clinical teaching. I’m also responsible for the practical training part of the programme and organise academic and social events that help strengthen the study environment.

How long have you worked at SDU?

I was hired in 2019, after a couple of years in clinical practice as an audiologist.

What’s the very best thing about your job?

I really value the close contact with students. When I know them well, I can support them individually – especially when they’re going through tough situations.

My colleagues also mean a lot to me. They contribute professionally, of course, but also to a working environment full of humour and togetherness, which makes everyday life easier and more fun.

It’s meaningful to be able to adapt the programme to keep it relevant and of high quality. And it’s exciting to see research results being put into practice – it strengthens the connection between theory and real life.

Tell us about a work task you're particularly proud of

I’m especially proud of planning the 20th anniversary celebration for Audiology – it’s shaping up to be a really great day for both former and current students and staff.

Another highlight was when a colleague and I reviewed all course descriptions and, in close collaboration with the teaching staff, adjusted the student workload. It made a noticeable difference to the quality of the programme.

In two years, we’ll be hosting the EFAS conference at SDU – a major international event that I already know will be a milestone. There’s a lot of work ahead, but it’ll be worth it.

What is your educational background – how did you end up in this job?

I trained as an educational audiologist at SDU, back when the programme was part of the Faculty of Humanities. The education struck a balance between technical audiology and audiopaediatrics, which caused some confusion about how our skills could be applied.

It’s been fascinating to follow the development – especially since the move to the Faculty of Health Sciences, where the programme has clearly been strengthened in terms of quality and its connection to clinical practice. I have to admit I’m sometimes a bit envious of the opportunities today’s students have.

Have you considered other career paths?

As a child, I wanted to be a professional badminton player – but it quickly became clear that probably wasn’t the right path. Later, I considered becoming a nurse or a teacher, but I didn’t want a job with weekend and evening shifts.

I sat down and searched UG.dk for a degree programme where I could work with people – but without needing maths at A level. That’s how I found audiology – the perfect match for me.

What do you do in your free time?

I love reading, but I’ve made an agreement with my family not to do it too often – I tend to get completely absorbed in books.

I also enjoy nature, but I have to admit my body can’t quite handle sports the way it used to.

Have you read, seen or listened to something good recently that you'd recommend?

Last summer, I devoured the entire Seven Sisters series in just one month. It’s romantic and dramatic, but I was completely hooked.

I’d also like to highlight the musician Karen Cecilie Cæcar. Her intimate voice and country-inspired sound really deserve more attention.

What’s your favourite excursion destination?

I’m fascinated by the history of France – especially Paris, where every street corner seems to hold a story.

Soon I’ll be travelling to Vietnam, and I’m really looking forward to experiencing the culture and meeting people who are passionate about sharing their history.

Do you have a special talent that others might not know about?

When I was in Year 5, I ran 100 metres in 12.22 seconds. No one really believes it – except my mum, and I’m not sure that counts. But I received an elite diploma for it, and I still have it.

Do you have an exciting or unusual interest you'd like to share?

I have a passion for the Tour de France – something not many people in my social circle share. So that’s probably where I stand out a bit.