Lauren is studying a Bachelor of Business (Marketing) and undertook an exchange at Johannes Kepler University, Austria during Semester 2 2025.
Going on exchange had always been a dream of mine and now reflecting on my experience I can confidently say it was the best few months of my life.
Leaving Adelaide I was so scared, yet excited for my new chapter in Austria. Linz was the perfect city to study in as it was big enough that there were lots of sights to explore, but small enough that I could get to know the city well.
Going over in autumn/winter I got to experience Oktoberfest in Linz, a white Christmas in Hamburg, many Christmas markets all over Europe, celebrated my 21st birthday in Strasbourg, saw snow for the first time on campus and went skiing for the first time over new year’s! My weekends consisted of travel where I was lucky enough to visit many countries including Italy, Czechia, Scotland, Slovenia, Germany, France, Hungary and Portugal. Travelling was definitely a highlight for me!
Uni life in Austria is similar to Australia. However, the student life was much more involved. JKU had a campus club which hosted a ‘Mensa Party’ most Thursday nights and the Astros sports teams (basketball and American football) that compete against other universities in Austria. JKU has an extensive sport program where I did Pilates classes for the semester with other students.
During my time at JKU I studied mostly business administration courses. Academically it was different, the class sizes were larger, went for longer and there was a big emphasis on group assignments, presentations and exams. I took eight classes during the semester, which was a larger work load than what I was used to at Flinders, yet very rewarding as the classes were interesting and engaging. I took German classes which helped me assimilate with the Austrian culture and communicate with locals.
The internationals team at JKU were very supportive, organising various events throughout the semester. I am so grateful to have such amazing friends from all over the globe – one has already come to Adelaide to visit me!
My time abroad not only taught me so much about myself but also gave me a global perspective from talking to so many people from different countries and cultures. I cannot recommend studying abroad enough – especially in Austria!
Vielen Dank und auf Wiedersehen, Österreich (for now)!
Photos: Salzburg with friends + JKU Basketball game
