Yeva Bekerova

University of Klagenfurt, 08.09.2025-31.01.2026, specialty during the mobility – International Business and Economics

The direct speech from the participant

– Describe the features of the study process at the host university:

The University of Klagenfurt provides all opportunities to study on campus. The library is open 24 hours a day, where we had the opportunity to use computers, have a constant and stable internet connection, and use the library's literature for a more in-depth study of topics. The learning process is entirely the responsibility of the student. We had to independently understand the material that we did not learn in lectures. Assessment included both theoretical and practical knowledge. 

– Where did you stay (dormitory, rented room, hostel, other)?

I lived in a rented apartment. It took me two months to find an apartment. I decided to rent an apartment because I was denied a place in a dormitory. 

Mobility participants should note that they need to submit their documents or information for a dormitory as early as possible, as the waiting list for places can be long. Depending on the waiting list, you can decide whether to look for alternative accommodation.

– Were you provided with a scholarship for the mobility program? If so, to what percentage did the scholarship cover the minimum necessary living expenses?

I was awarded a scholarship of €800 per month. It fully covered my minimum living expenses. 

– Based on your experience, what should future mobility program participants pay attention to during preparation?

Look for accommodation in advance and consider alternative options in case there are not enough places in the dormitory. 

Check in advance the information about the paperwork in the country you are going to. 

– What unexpected issues arose during your mobility?

All the issues that arose were based on ignorance of cultural differences (for example, all shops are closed on Sundays) or the language barrier.

– Briefly describe your expectations for the mobility program and whether they were fulfilled.

My expectations of mobility were fully met, as I had the opportunity to travel, learn about Austrian cultural values, communicate in a multicultural environment, and study in English.

– What educational and cultural activities did you participate in during your mobility?

I tried to participate in all the events organized by the University of Klagenfurt: movie days, festivals (Octoberfest), parties (Semester Opening and Semester Closing). I also attended the Krampus Night festival, which is a national holiday in Austria. 

– Share your most vivid impressions from the mobility program.

The most vivid impression was the Krampus Night festival, as it is very different from Ukrainian national holidays. Krampus walked along the main street of the city and scared the spectators. Both adults and children watched the festival. After the parade, a party with music and dancing was held in the main square. 

– Would you like to participate in the mobility program again, and where would you go?

Yes, I really enjoyed the experience I had. I would like to visit other European countries with cultural values different from those of Austria and Ukraine.

– Would you recommend participating in the mobility program?

Yes, I recommend participating in mobility programs because it is a unique experience of living and studying in another country.