In this interview Mathias (MA International Management) shares his experiences from his Eramus+ mobility in Norway and the impact that a semester abroad had in his life. He also shares valuable tips and insights and why he would recommend spending a semester abroad to prospective outgoing exchange students.

 

Tell us something about yourself, what do you study at AAU and why you decided to spend a semester abroad.

I am studying International Management at the University of Klagenfurt. Originally, I had planned to complete a semester abroad during my bachelor’s degree, but it was canceled due to Covid. Fortunately, an exchange semester is now included in my study plan, allowing me to prepare in advance to spend a semester abroad.

 

Why did you decide to spend an exchange period at your chosen host university?

My decision was between Norway and Spain. However, I already speak Spanish and am familiar with the Spanish culture. Therefore, I opted to try something completely new. The Østfold University College was the only option in Norway, but I was highly satisfied with the institution due to its reputation. I was eager to go to Norway to learn from their advanced society and education system.

 

From an academic and personal perspective, in what ways did you benefit from taking part in a mobility programme?

I could particularly observe how other countries and cultures approach learning and the testing of acquired knowledge. It was extremely fascinating to see the interactive methods used in Norway to integrate practice and theory, and how much enjoyment active learning can bring. The various teaching approaches and the personal approach of the professors were very pleasant and provided me with new perspectives on how learned concepts can be applied in practice and how I can acquire new skills. It was also exciting to note that the university is not only seen as a place for learning but is also utilized for leisure activities and socializing with friends.

In addition, by living directly on campus alongside Norwegians and students from various nations, I gained not only new insights into other cultures but also a deeper understanding of my own. Through constant explanations and sharing stories about where we come from, one learns many things that were not so apparent before. Comparing different cultures proves to be extremely fascinating.

An exchange semester also means spending a lot of time with oneself and stepping out of one’s comfort zone to meet new people. This allowed me to discover what truly matters to me and undergo significant personal development. It is not always easy to immerse oneself in completely new environments and meet many new people within a short period. An exchange semester more or less forces one to jump into the deep end. However, once you’ve overcome your own shadow, many exciting adventures await. Additionally, fellow Erasmus students share similar experiences, creating a common bond. You learn to unfold during the exchange semester and establish connections with people from various countries. As a result, I was able to build an international network of friends and already have many plans to return to Norway and visit other countries to reconnect with my friends.

 

Has your view of the world changed through your mobility period? If yes, how?

I was already quite open-minded before the semester abroad. However, through the program, I could personally experience cultural differences, which I had only read about before. I was amazed at how advanced and contented Norwegian society lives and could understand firsthand why that is. Despite feeling the impact of winter depression in Norway, I was by no means dissatisfied with my decision. The daily interaction with Norwegians and people from other nations presented me with an open-minded view of how different cultures handle various situations. I can definitely say that through the program, I have become more culturally sensitive and better understand various behaviors.

 

Would you recommend spending a semester abroad to other AAU students? Can you tell us why?

Absolutely! A semester abroad changes you in every way – how you see yourself and how you perceive the world around you as a whole. The various educational perspectives also have a positive impact on one’s understanding of learning new theories. Personally, I would do this experience again anytime. I believe it’s not so much about where you go, but simply about doing a semester abroad. The time in Norway revealed many small things that I miss about Austria, things I never truly appreciated before. At the same time, I’ve also discovered many new things that I now miss and would love to have in Austria. Nevertheless, I am very satisfied to have had the chance to experience these aspects. I would recommend a semester abroad to everyone, regardless of whether you see yourself as a globetrotter or not. Once you find yourself in a foreign country and have to deal with different customs, you’ll be surprised at how quickly you adapt, learn new things, and discover what truly matters to you. You make friends for life and experience so much in such a short time, something some people may not experience in 10 years.

 

Can you give prospective outgoing students some tips to make the most out of the mobility? (From a general “logistic” point of view and from an academic one)

First and foremost, it’s essential to know which country you want to choose. However, one should not only consider the country and the selected city but also focus on the academic opportunities provided by the partner university. It truly doesn’t matter where you go, as you will have an incredible experience anywhere and meet many new people. Academically, it is much easier to choose a partner university where the offered courses contribute to your academic progress and are recognized by the University of Klagenfurt. If any questions arise, don’t hesitate to call the partner university or arrange an online meeting. This way, questions can be answered more quickly than through email correspondence, and you also stay in the minds of the responsible individuals at the partner university.

It was particularly important to me that the partner university could guarantee a room in the student dormitory. This allowed me to skip the hassle of searching for accommodation and focus my energy on other matters.

The International Office at AAU provides all necessary information that is important before, during, and after the stay. I recommend scheduling an appointment with the International Office early enough and completing all necessary steps before the stay.

 

Word Rap:

 

My first day at the host university was… exciting and scary.

When in Halden you should not miss… walking to the Fjord.

The best 3 things about an exchange semester… new friends, new perspective of oneself, experience abroad

My studies abroad in 3 words: incredible, fun, life-changing