Student Profile
Name: Amber Pustai
Major: Psychology and English Literature
Exchange University: The University of Graz, Austria
Advice: “Something I wish I knew before I left for my exchange would be to expect the unexpected and how to deal with the process of adapting. As odd as these two things might be, I found I was wishing that I had some kind of awareness when I had to deal with both things, during my time abroad. Firstly, I found there were a few times during my exchange where I was not prepared and did not anticipate the outcome. Secondly, when it came to dealing with the process of adapting this is something I wish I was more aware of. When it came to the first month (September) of my study abroad, it took roughly the whole month for me to adapt to the new environment and culture. There were so many emotions I had to deal with, and I can say it was not easy but has made me stronger as a person overall.”
QUESTIONS
Why did you decide to travel abroad?
I’ve always had an interest in traveling, when I found out Trent offered Studying Abroad opportunities I jumped at the chance. I felt it was a great opportunity to learn and experience new cultures.
Why did you choose to study at The University of Graz? How did you learn about it?
To be honest Austria was not my first choice, Germany was. I choose Austria as a second option because of the location since it is roughly in the center of Europe. Before I officially choose my top choices for Studying Abroad, I decided to do some research on a few countries in Europe.
What was your experience like? What are some of the differences & similarities with Trent?
There are no words to describe my experience doing this exchange. Overall, it has been an incredible experience and I’ve enjoyed every moment.
Some differences I noticed,
- The size of the University of Graz is different compared to the Trent Peterborough campus. The University of Graz is quite larger in size and it’s more spread out. Whereas Peterborough and even Durham are a lot smaller and not as spread out.
- Student housing is also not directly on the campus, some of the dorms are located on the campus or spread around the city of Graz. While in Peterborough and Durham the student housing is directly on the campus or close to the campus.
- The classes are also not as long compare to Trent. In Graz courses only run for an hour and a half, whereas some Trent courses are 3 hours long.
As for similarities,
- The University feels the same in the sense of cafés on the campus.
- I can say it took me a little getting used to with regards to the courses and workload. I’m used to 3-hour courses with a lot of assignments and discussions. While here at the University of Graz, the courses are shorter and the workload is a lot lighter, having a presentation, final paper, paper proposal and reading materials for next class. The are many available resources located on the campus, same as Trent.
What did you find was the most challenging/difficult while abroad?
For me the most challenging and difficult thing while doing this study abroad would have to be adjusting to the language. Since German is the first language spoken and English is next, I’ve had to get used to hearing German anywhere I’ve gone. Also trying to get used to other people speaking German first, until they realized I’m an English speaker.
In your opinion, what would you say are the benefits of studying abroad?
I think there are a lot of benefits when it comes to someone partaking in a study abroad. Self-growth is a big benefit, you get the chance to know more about yourself and who you are as a person. Stepping out of your comfort zone is also a benefit, for someone who is a major introvert, this opportunity has given me the chance to step out of my own comfort zone and try/experience new things. Becoming more independent and developing communication I think are also other benefits from studying abroad.
What was one of your favourite memories from your time abroad?
The overall experience would have to be 1 of my many favourite memories. This has been an unbelievable experience and very unique in its own way. The chance to see, learn, experience, and partake in new cultures has also been a favourite memory. From all the traveling I’ve done during my free time, I’ve had an incredible opportunity to meet new people and learn more about this world than I could ever have hoped for.
If someone told you they were thinking about studying abroad but weren’t convinced they should, what would you tell them?
There is so much I would probably tell someone, I think the most important thing I would express to someone is first connect with other people who have done a study abroad, they can give you an insight and answer a lot of questions.
Second would be once you decide on your destination, do as much research as possible about the country and its culture.
Thirdly, you won’t regret this decision, it does not matter how old you are, it’s a great opportunity and something which will help a person grow as an individual.
Fourth, be open minded about new experiences and the culture. Enjoy every moment you have.
Finally, understanding your emotions and nerves can sometimes make the experience frightening, so take it 1 day, 1 hour, 1 minute and 1 second at a time and just breathe!