Jackson Horrocks

Why did you choose your host university?

I wanted to choose WU because of its new and high tech campus, as well as the fact that they offered a comprehensive list of supply chain management courses as well as a variety of unique courses. I also wanted to go to a non-English speaking country so Austria and Vienna specifically really fit my ideas.

What was the university like?

The University was great! The way they teach their classes is however extremely different to here. They prefer to teach all their courses in block classes which means you will generally have class 4 to 6 times and each class will usually go for around 3 to 5 hours. As far as the resources available they were first class although a laptop is a must!

What did you gain from your exchange experience and has it changed the way you think or altered your approach to life?

I have gained so much from this experience, I would say I am more confident and am more educated about different ways of life. As well as realising that there is so much more to life out there in the world.

What accommodation options were available to you?  How affordable was accommodation and would you recommend the same option to others?

Accommodation in Vienna is quite expensive, around 475 euros per month with OeAD. However, experiences with them can vary quite significantly going by mine and my friends experience. So, I would recommend trying to find private accommodation, however if you can’t then OeAD will be fine, you might just have a few issues with them.

Describe your travel experiences; did you travel locally or to neighbouring countries? 

I travelled throughout Austria, which has some of the most amazing scenery I might add, skiing in the alps is also a must! as well as neighbouring countries. My favourite city aside from Vienna would have to be Budapest, Venna to Budapest train tickets are cheap and it’s one of the most amazing places. I also saw Bratislava, Venice, and London to name a few. One of the advantages of Vienna is that it is extremely central to all European countries.

Describe how you adjusted to life in a different country and how you met new people.

The first week or so is quite tough, it’s quite stressful all the information you have to take in, and the fact that most of this information is in a different language, as well as just going to get groceries became a stressful adventure etc. but you will soon begin to pick up important bits of the language. The university provides a great orientation program so that was where I met all my friends, and you will meet friends that will be there for the entire exchange, and they will become some of the most important people you know. I would consider them family we experienced many firsts together! It also helped that Vienna is an amazing city, with amazing public transport which makes getting around a breeze.

Can you see any benefits from this exchange to your future career?

For sure, the fact that I was able to go out of my comfort zone and adapt to a different culture, tells an employer a lot about my temperament. I have also made contacts all throughout the world!

What advice would you give to a student who was hesitant or considering joining the exchange program?

Just do it! You won’t regret it. There are plenty of financial options if money is an issue in fact, this is the cheapest way to see the world for sure! You will make some of your best friends out there 100%