So far I would have to say my experience in Graz is nothing short of amazing and enlightening. Not only have I learned a lot about Graz and Austria, but I have also learned more about America. For starters day to day life is quite different in some aspects even if it’s the same activities. For instance something as simple as grocery shopping can be quite different. In America I am used to certain Nutrition facts and labels as well as various brands of food that I have come to love. Here in Austria labels differ drastically and not only did I have to learn a different system to understand things like calorie intake and the amount of protein, but I’ve also learned to expand my palette and try new foods such as local cuisine and European brands of food.
Classes also provide an interesting challenge in learning to adapt to life in Austria. Naturally the classes are in a different language (with a few exceptions here and there of classes in English), but the structure has been a challenge to adjust too. Here the organization of class schedules left me with a lot of free time (since my classes all meet once a week) and thus I have found myself being able to explore Graz, practice various skills, perfect my time management, and learn various things on my own time that I did not have back in the states.
The University has been excellent in helping me learn outside of the classroom. The Erasmus network (International Student organization) has been an amazing experience. Through Erasmus you are not only able to meet other Austrians but many foreigners from around the world as well. By going to the various events and get togethers set up by Erasmus I have been able to make many international friends as well as many wonderful memories. Talking with anyone through Erasmus is a great way to explore not only a different culture but learn more about your own culture as well.
I have learned various things about life in Austria, Germany, Belgium, Italy, and many more countries as well as learn all the different perspectives foreigners have of America and Americans. For instance, what may seem like a simple day trip to NYC from Montclair, is a vacation destination for many foreigners, and vice versa for anyone living in Graz taking a simple day trip to Vienna while Americans have to travel across the Atlantic. For any future student that comes to Graz, I would highly recommend joining the Erasmus network. When you meet the right people, the whole world opens up to you, and Graz definitely provides the opportunity to meet many amazing people. Overall my experience has been one I will cherish my whole life and I can’t wait to experience the next semester and see what else I can learn and who I will meet. (February 2016)