Studying in Austria
During my exchange, I studied at a university in Wels. Since there was no automation engineering program in English, I took courses from the electrical, automotive, and mechatronics fields. One of the biggest differences compared to Finland was how theory-heavy the teaching was. In Austria, lectures focused a lot on theoretical concepts rather than practical applications, which I found challenging since I prefer more hands-on learning. Despite this, it was interesting to see a different academic approach and gain knowledge from different engineering disciplines.
Spare Time and Travel Adventures
Outside of studies, my exchange experience was filled with traveling and social activities. Austria’s central location made it easy to visit other countries, and I took every opportunity to explore places like Germany, Czech, and Hungary. In Wels, we often spent time at the dormitory with other exchange students, organizing small gatherings and experiencing different cultures through shared meals and activities. The international environment made everyday life exciting and helped create unforgettable memories.
Comparison: Studying in Austria vs. Finland
Studying in Austria felt quite different from Finland. In Finland, studies are often more practical, with a strong emphasis on applying knowledge in real-world scenarios. In Austria, however, the approach was more theoretical, and students were expected to absorb a lot of academic content before getting to practical applications. Additionally, the study culture in Austria felt more formal, whereas in Finland, there is a more relaxed atmosphere between students and teachers.
Overall, my exchange in Austria was a valuable experience. Even though the teaching style was different from what I was used to, I gained new perspectives, met amazing people, and had the chance to travel to incredible places. If you ever get the chance to study abroad, I highly recommend it!
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