When I first heard about this scholarship, I thought it was too good to be true. There were so many positive aspects, and I never thought I would receive it. I applied anyway. When I went to the global education office and unofficially found out that I got it, I was psyched. I literally jumped for joy. I did so once again when I received the acceptance letter. When I boarded the plane I was sad to leave my family and friends behind but so excited to be on my own in a new country. I didn’t know what to expect. Who I would meet? What the city was like? Where would I travel? These questions burned in my mind. I finally arrived in Graz and my expectations were exceeded.
Graz is small. It’s the second largest city in Austria, but after a few weeks it is impossible to get lost. Everything is close by and extremely easy to reach, whether by Straßenbahn or bus, by foot or on bike. Traveling the world is a goal of mine, and it is also extremely easy to travel abroad from Graz. I can just hop on a train to Prague, Budapest, Maribor, or Vienna to catch another. The location of Graz is perfect if you want to see “the world”.
Becoming culturally aware is another goal of mine, and this is a great place to do that. With hundreds of Erasmus and joint-study students here from all over, you learn about their cultures, languages, and lives. Graz is the opportunity of a lifetime, and it is truly a dream come true. Being here is difficult at times, but when I get homesick, I go for a walk around town, cook dinner with my new friends, or travel somewhere new and the feeling goes away quickly. Experiencing this, a new culture and lifestyle, will influence my life deeply. I will remember Graz for as long as I live and it is truly shaping who I am. I am so thankful for this wonderful opportunity.
Kirsten Huze and Dino Livakovic with the Mayor of Graz