Taylor Mitchell

Why did you choose to participate in the Global Exchange to WU Vienna University of Economics and Business?

I’ve always wanted to travel and live overseas, and an exchange seemed like the best way to do that. I chose Vienna because it’s close to so many countries and very easy to travel to and from.

Also, the university has a 2-week orientation programme and organised trips, which I thought was a great way to explore Vienna, meet people, and get adjusted.

How did you find your experience?

I absolutely loved it. It was the first time I had left New Zealand, and it was the best six months of my life. I had so much fun and I want to go back!

What did you like most about your exchange experience?

I think the best part of my exchange is the people I met and the friendships I built. We shared such a unique experience and became super close over a short period of time. It was cool to live in a new place, explore, meet people from all over the world, and experience different cultures. 

What is the education like at WU Vienna University of Economics and Business? 

It’s a top business school in Europe with a very high level of education. Compared to UC, it’s very formal and proper, but it wasn’t really difficult to adjust to and I never felt like I was out of my depth.

How did you find the courses and teaching style?

The courses are big on presentations and group projects, which I hadn’t done before. It scared me at first, but it was cool to try something new and push myself out of my comfort zone. Now, it seems like second nature to me, which was great when I returned to UC and had to do it. 

What were your accommodation arrangements?

Most exchange students stayed in an apartment block about a 15 minute walk from uni. You have your own bedroom and share a kitchen and bathroom with one or two others. It was affordable, and it was cool to be with all the exchange students. It’s a really good set up.

What did you like most about student life at WU Vienna? 

I really enjoyed the big student community. There are lots of exchange students and everyone gets on well, so it’s a cool vibe. There were lots of events and everyone’s keen to socialise. Campus is right next to a massive park, which was nice to eat lunch at or hire bikes to ride around. And it’s close to public transport, so it's super easy to go anywhere. 

How did you find life in Vienna and Austria?

Living in Vienna is amazing. There are so many opportunities and things to do, like museums and hiking and going out on weekends. It’s a great city. I’m really into running, and the accommodation is between a big park and the Danube – two prime running areas.

Austria is one of my favourite countries; it’s beautiful, with its mountains and nature. I was nervous about the language barrier, but most people can speak English. 

Did you travel in your free time?

Yes, lots! In Europe, everything’s so close and accessible. I went to Venice, Copenhagen, Prague, Budapest, London, Paris, Rome, and Edinburgh – just to name a few. 

I went snorkelling and ice caving in Iceland. I’m very into tennis, so I went to Wimbledon. I enjoy being in the outdoors, so Switzerland and Salzburg were great. One of my favourite trips was Cyprus, because I went with a good bunch of mates and that’s what really made it fun.

It’s special to have those shared experiences to look back on. 

How do you think the overseas experience will help you in your future?

Seeing different cultures and meeting people from all over the world opened my eyes to the fact there’s so much more out there. Since I’ve come back, I’m more open-minded and culturally aware. It also forces you to grow up and become more independent. 

Did the exchange lead you to any other opportunities or experiences?

Going on exchange inspired me to keep traveling and see more of the world, so when I got back, I applied for and received a 3-month internship with KPMG in Indonesia. If I hadn’t gone to Vienna, there’s no way I would have done this.

Would you recommend other students take part in the Global Exchange programme?

Yes, I definitely would. No matter where you choose to go, it’s an amazing, life-changing experience. 

Any tips for future students?

Make the most of it and say yes to every opportunity. It’ll push you outside your comfort zone, but it’s so worth it. And just enjoy it! Take lots of photos and videos to look back on.