My Decision to Pursue Engineering Studies in Austria

Exploring New Horizons: My Journey to Engineering Studies in Austria

Have you ever found yourself lost in contemplation, pondering the path you want to take in life? Have you ever imagined what it would be like to live in a different country, eager to uncover new experiences and broaden your horizons?

Don’t get me wrong, I have a deep appreciation for my small city in Colombia. However, a part of me yearned for the countless opportunities and knowledge that awaited me beyond its borders.

If you share similar thoughts, then we have something in common. As you delve into my story of how I found myself in the captivating city of Villach, Austria, I hope you find valuable and inspiring insights for your own study abroad journey.

Embarking on a New Chapter: My Pre-Study Abroad Life in Austria

As I mentioned before, my journey began in Colombia. However, my family and I decided to pursue the “American dream” and relocated to California, USA. We spent a decade there, immersing ourselves in a new culture and embracing the opportunities it had to offer. Nonetheless, my mother eventually made the decision that it was best for us to return to Colombia. Thus, at the age of 14, my brother, mother, and I found ourselves back in our home country, where I completed my high school education and obtained my Bachelor’s degree.

In Colombia, we lived as a close-knit family unit. We belonged to the middle-class stratum, with my father working in the construction industry for many years and my mother dedicating herself to teaching English. Growing up, my brother and I had our needs met, and our parents always went the extra mile to provide for us. However, the idea of them financing our tuition fees and living expenses abroad seemed out of reach.

Nevertheless, we knew that we had their unwavering support, irrespective of the magnitude of our dreams, and that meant the world to us. Consequently, I made the decision to pursue my Bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering in Colombia, keeping in mind that my ultimate goal was to pursue my Master’s degree in a foreign country.

During and after my studies, I worked as an English teacher, leveraging my proficiency in the language. This job not only allowed me to save money but also provided me with valuable experience. Simultaneously, I delved into extensive research, exploring the application processes, accommodation options, and legal requirements of various countries, focusing on opportunities in the field of engineering, particularly environmental and geographic information systems.

After thorough investigation, my options narrowed down to two countries: Austria and Germany. However, the pressing question that remained was how to actually make my way to these destinations. For me, the answer lay in working as an Au Pair, as it would afford me the opportunity to continue saving while immersing myself in a foreign culture—an experience I had long yearned for.

Choosing Austria: A Haven for Environmental Engineering Studies

When considering my career prospects, it was crucial for me to find a country that would allow me to combine my Bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering with a Master’s in geoinformatics. After numerous discussions with my colleagues and professors, it became evident that Austria had much to offer in this regard.

Austria, in general, presents a wealth of opportunities for engineering students. The job market for students is diverse, encompassing both smaller startups and larger, established companies. What’s particularly exciting is the increasing utilization of drones and remote sensing in agriculture and land use management by many of these companies. This presents a remarkable chance for us to apply and expand upon our studies, offering a dynamic and hands-on learning experience.

Moreover, several cities in Austria, such as Salzburg, boast a vibrant engineering community. These cities host regular seminars and summer schools, providing invaluable networking and knowledge-sharing opportunities for aspiring engineers.

Another compelling aspect that makes Austria an ideal study abroad destination for engineering students (and students in general) is its central location within Europe. This geographical advantage allows for convenient travel to neighboring countries during leisure time, enabling a well-rounded and culturally enriching experience.

The opportunities Austria has presented to me have been immeasurable, and bidding farewell to this beautiful country will undoubtedly be challenging.

Embracing Life as an International Student in Austria

In September 2019, I embarked on my journey as an international student in the enchanting city of Villach. The mix of nervousness and excitement overwhelmed me, creating a whirlwind of emotions that accompanied my arrival.

Before even stepping foot in Austria, I had connected with fellow Latin American students through social media platforms and mutual friends. These connections provided a sense of familiarity and support, easing my transition into this new chapter of my life.

Although I had secured an apartment prior to my arrival, I couldn’t move in immediately due to the previous tenant still occupying the space. Thankfully, a kind-hearted Mexican friend I met through a Latin American group on Facebook graciously offered me a place to stay until the end of the month. While I deeply appreciated her hospitality, I was eager to settle into my own beautiful and remarkably affordable (€250) apartment. It was my first experience living on my own, and the excitement of this newfound independence fueled my anticipation.

Villach, albeit small, proved to be an exceptionally comfortable city to navigate. Everything I needed, from stores to supermarkets, parks, and rivers, was within walking distance. To enhance my mobility, I acquired a bicycle that I lovingly restored. This two-wheeled companion became my primary mode of transportation, allowing me to reach the university in just 13 minutes. Cycling to the lake took around 30 minutes, but the scenic journey was well worth it. The lake served as a gathering spot during the summer, where students would bask in the sun, play beach volleyball, engage in conversations with friends, and meet new acquaintances.

To sustain myself financially, I secured a part-time job at a restaurant. Working only on weekends was ideal as it didn’t interfere with my weekday classes. Moreover, the cost of living in Villach was reasonable, allowing me to cover rent, food expenses, phone bills, and even manage debts back home while still having enough to enjoy socializing with friends and savoring the vibrant student life.

Since my arrival, Villach has truly become my home away from home. The university boasts a diverse community of international students, creating an environment where speaking English is the norm and fostering a sense of inclusivity. The locals in Villach are incredibly kind and understanding, often recognizing that we are students and treating us with warmth and respect. The city itself offers an abundance of travel opportunities, each brimming with rich culture and history. Villach, with its welcoming atmosphere, provides an ideal setting to study, work, and relish in the joys of life as an international student.

Perseverance Pays Off: Navigating the Study Abroad Application Process

When it comes to pursuing studies abroad, patience becomes your greatest ally. It’s essential to maintain a resilient mindset and not let rejections discourage you. With time and enduring patience, everything will eventually fall into place.

As an Au Pair in Klagenfurt, a neighboring city of Villach, I began my quest for suitable universities and Master’s programs in the field of Geoinformatics. This involved an extensive research phase, during which I identified five programs that aligned with my aspirations. It’s worth noting that I initiated this application process six months before the actual deadline. From my personal experience, arranging the necessary documentation proved to be the most challenging aspect. However, once you have all the required paperwork in order, you won’t have to go through that process again.

One aspect of applying to study in Austria that stood out to me was the visa process, which proved to be significantly simpler compared to other countries. Depending on your nationality, you can apply for the visa upon arrival in Austria, and the entire process typically takes a maximum of two weeks. This streamlined procedure alleviated much of the stress associated with obtaining a visa, especially when compared to the typical three-to-four-month waiting period at the Austrian embassy in my home country.

Above all, never give up. The study abroad journey is filled with its fair share of highs and lows. However, trust me when I say that the feeling of accomplishment and fulfillment upon setting foot on the university campus for the first time is beyond gratifying. Embrace the challenges, persevere through the obstacles, and keep pushing forward. The rewards that await you are immeasurable.