Prepared by: Nor Nabilah Qistina Mohamad Rafiene
Program: ERASMUS+ Semester Exchange Program

I had the incredible opportunity to participate in a semester exchange at FH Joanneum,
University of Applied Sciences, Austria. I was drawn to this university by my curiosity to
explore European culture and witness firsthand how they have become developed nations.
The reputation of their education system as one of the best worldwide further solidified my
decision. Arriving in Austria on September 15th, 2022, I was filled with excitement and a
sense of adventure, ready to embrace the challenges and rewards of being a foreign student.
Being in a foreign country taught me invaluable lessons in independence and the willingness
to learn new things. It was a constant process of adapting to Austrian culture while
simultaneously enjoying the journey of acquiring knowledge. I selected four subjects for my
semester: Basic German language, Strategic Management, B2B Marketing, and International
Finance. I chose these courses as the courses are very interesting and kindly related to
economic courses. I could use the extra knowledge as our courses only focuses on economic
related. It was fun to learn something that is outside of my bachelor. It was also very helpful
to learn german courses as Austrian speak German as their first language. Thus, by learning
the language, I was able to understand and speak German with the locals

One aspect of my experience that truly stood out was the diverse mix of students I had the
privilege of learning with. The multitude of perspectives and the ability to witness different
ways of thinking was truly eye-opening. I admired the environment that fostered mutual
respect and learning from one another. The lecturers at FH Joanneum were incredibly
helpful, making sure to connect theoretical concepts to real-life situations. Every theory we
learned had a practical application, showcasing how top companies and government
regulations make decisions to enhance profitability and consumer welfare. The extensive use
of case studies aided our understanding, allowing us to apply our knowledge in a meaningful
way. What impressed me the most was the open communication between lecturers and
students, where opinions were valued, and discussions were held respectfully. In cases
where there were differing views or negative feedback, both parties worked together to find
the best possible solutions.

Weekends and semester breaks provided the perfect opportunities to immerse myself in
Austrian culture through various programs organized by the Erasmus Student Network.
These programs ranged from cultural experiences to historical site visits and even
adventurous hikes in nature. Participating in these activities allowed me to connect with
fellow students and develop lasting friendships. Additionally, I seized the chance to travel to
other European countries, exploring their unique cultures and traditions. The experiences
were truly eye-opening and left an indelible impression on me.

Looking back, my semester exchange at FH Joanneum was a transformative journey. It
instilled in me a sense of independence, adaptability, and a deep appreciation for cultural
diversity. The knowledge and memories I gained during this period will forever shape my
personal and professional growth. As I continue on my academic and career path, I will carry
these experiences close to my heart, always remaining open to new perspectives and seizing
opportunities for growth. My time in Austria has broadened my horizons and equipped me
with the skills needed to thrive in our interconnected world. I am truly grateful for the
unforgettable semester I had at FH Joanneum.

Tarikh Input: 29/06/2024 | Kemaskini: 31/08/2024 | sh_najiyah