Valeriia Chich

 

University of Applied Sciences Wiener Neustadt, 01.09.2025-20.12.2025, specialty during the mobility – Business Consultancy International

The direct speech from the participant

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

At the host university, unlike at Dnipro University of Technology, one class (in almost all cases) lasts 3.5 hours, and it is not possible to pass a course based on ongoing assessment alone, without taking exams (sometimes one subject may have one exam, and sometimes more than three).

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

I lived at Campus Residence Grünangergasse GmbH. I recommend paying attention to the following: a mandatory deposit (before moving in) in the amount of two months' rent, which will be returned only after the room has been handed over to the owners and inspected by them (it is not included in the monthly payment, it is paid separately); dishes and bedding are not provided.

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

Yes, I received a scholarship. Please note that the scholarship was paid in two installments: the first before arrival, the second after completion of studies and approval of documents. The minimum expenses from the first payment can be covered 100% (dormitory, food, and registration), but, for example, if you live in Campus Residence, it will not be enough to cover the full cost. If we consider the full amount of the scholarship, it will also be enough for short trips around Austria and some neighbouring countries. 

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

Think about a first aid kit, check what discounts are available for students, as well as prices for different types of transport. In addition, familiarize yourself with the rules of SWIFT payments, as it is sometimes very difficult or even impossible to make a transfer through Ukrainian banks, even if you have the documents for the transaction.

 

– What unexpected issues arose during your mobility?

Medical insurance. For some reason, Ukrainian insurance was not reflected in the hospital system, so I was told to get Austrian insurance (since treatment would be very expensive), but after I got it, I was advised to wait until I got home and decide there. It is better to resolve all issues before your trip if you know that they may arise before your return. Note: if Ukrainian insurance is not reflected in their system, you can most likely still receive partial compensation by contacting your insurance company, but you will have to pay for everything yourself first.

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

My main expectation, although not very positive, was that it would be very difficult, especially with English, because I had never had the opportunity to try my hand outside of the classroom. However, in general, I did not encounter any particular difficulties in communicating with others or in class (but, of course, without improving my specific vocabulary, I would not have gotten anywhere).

 

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

FH Wiener Neustadt offered various events to get to know Austria better. I visited: Schneeberg (climbing the mountain: first by train, and then, if desired, to the very top, the height of the mountain is 2076 m), Zotter Chocolate Manufacturer & Wine Tavern (a visit to a chocolate factory) and Vienna Christmas Markets.

 

– Share your most vivid impressions from the mobility program.

The most vivid impressions for me were short one-day trips, such as those mentioned in the previous question, as well as independent trips, for example, a trip to the tourist town of Hallstatt, walks in Vienna and Baden.

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

Yes. Currently, I plan participation in week-long academic mobility programs. As for semester-long programs, if the opportunity arises, I would like to go to Austria again, but other countries are also appealing.

 

– Would you recommend participating in the mobility program?

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