Erasmus Experience in Vienna, Austria by Gen

Why did you choose to go to Vienna, Austria?

I decided to do my study exchange at the Academy of Fine Arts Vienna because it has a big focus on theory. Specifically, on social and political topics such as Gender Studies, Queer Theory and Post-Colonialism. I also thought it could be really interesting to experience people's opinions on these topics in this area of Europe given that it is right in the centre of a lot of important political movements and has a rich history of migration, war, activism, etc.

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How long is the scholarship? How much money do you receive to help you with living costs?

I am doing a semester-long exchange and have received just over £700 as the first instalment. Living costs aren't really an issue as they are a lot less than in London. My OEAD accommodation (single room in flat of 3) is €300-400 per month. Food is the same price as back home but better quality.

What is the student lifestyle like in Vienna?

Being an art student in Vienna is incredibly laid back. Most classes are in the afternoon or evening, my earliest class starts at 10am, and the tutors are very easy-going. The amount of work you need to do depends on how many credits you need to complete for your home uni. I need to complete 20 credits, but with my tutor classes fulfilling 17 credits I only needed to sign up to a couple more courses to cover the rest. Life-drawing plus a practical or theory class. Some courses require you to do an exam at the end in order to pass but many of them only require you to attend the classes. So the work load is only as big as you choose to make it.

Would you recommend the city and the University of Vienna to other students?

I would definitely recommend Vienna had a place to study. I have really loved my time here so far. Studying is chill, there is a lot of sight seeing to do here, the food is great, and you're right in the centre of other countries to visit while travelling.

What is the food like?

The traditional food is fairly terrible but don't worry there are plenty of alternatives in this city. Vietnamese is very popular as well as Turkish and Italian. There are plenty of options for vegetarians but not many for vegans.

It is really easy to find cheap food at chain bakeries such as Der Mann, Strock and Aida. Spar and Lidl are the most common supermarkets. Cake and pastries are found in every cafe.

How much does it cost to live in Vienna?

Compared to London, Vienna is very cheap but if you are coming from Germany then everything will seem expensive.

Is the language easy to get to grips with? Are there language courses available at the University?

It is not essential to speak German as everyone has at least a basic understanding of English and it does not take long to memorise phrases that are important.

Language courses are available but often you have to pay for them. I was not able to take the beginners class at the Academy as they only teach it during the winter semester and my exchange is during the summer semester.

What's the easiest or most economical way to travel to Vienna from your city?

Flying is the only option from England. Ryanair does not fly directly to Vienna but you can get a bus from Bratislava. I have been using Eurowings and EasyJet for the cheapest flights direct to Vienna. It is usually £50-60 return from London.

And for eating? Can you recommend some good restaurants in Vienna?

Nguyen's Pho House has great meat and veggie options including garden rolls, curry and pho.

Der Wiener Deewan is a pay-as-you-wish Palestinian restaurant in the 8th district. The food is amazing, healthy and buffet style!

As for cafes, the experience alone is worth a visit. I would recommend the Museum Cafe near Schillerplatz.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

There are plenty of historical places to visit including the Belvedere Palace, Schönbrunn, the Albertina and the Hofburg Palace. The best places for art are the Kunsthistorisches Museum, the Museums Quartier, the Belvedere and the MAK.

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