‘It felt like the perfect opportunity to broaden my horizons’ Kamila’s Erasmus+ experience in Austria

In Hallstatt at the panoramic viewpoint 

Kamila Jasionyte undertook an Erasmus+ study abroad in Austria as part of her undergraduate degree at Maynooth University. 

During the third year of my bachelor’s degree in Business Management and Global Cultures at Maynooth University, I spent two semesters in Austria, studying at the University of Vienna through the Erasmus+ programme. 

My studies in Vienna focused on social and cultural anthropology. It felt like the perfect fit – after all, what better opportunity to study different cultures than spending a whole year living in a different country? The university’s reputation also drew me in; it has been home to some incredibly influential scholars, from Sigmund Freud to Erwin Schrödinger and Gregor Mendel. It felt really special to study in a place with such a rich academic history.  

Beyond university, Vienna is a culturally vibrant city. Every day was a learning experience, exploring its streets, museums, and participating in local customs and events. It truly made my studies feel alive and connected to the real world. 

How did you learn about Erasmus+?
I first heard about Erasmus+ through the International Office at Maynooth University. I’d come across it vaguely online before, but the International Office provided clear guidance and support when I started thinking about applying.  

What motivated you to do it?
Erasmus+ felt like the perfect opportunity to broaden my horizons.  

As an anthropology student, a lot of my time is focused on ethnographic research and learning how people experience the world in unique ways. So, in a way, going on Erasmus+ felt like carrying out my own mini ethnographic project – learning by living abroad and immersing myself fully in a new culture. I wanted to experience a new university system and see how anthropology was taught elsewhere. Central Europe has a strong reputation for anthropology, and I was curious to see how it compared to Ireland. I hoped it would give me a wider perspective and competitive edge and for my future career. 

But it wasn’t just about academics. I’d never really travelled on my own before. The furthest I’d gone from home was living on campus, about an hour’s drive away, and most weekends I went home, so it never truly felt like I had left. I wanted something different – something that would really push me out of my comfort zone.  

Whether it was travelling, tasting new foods, going to concerts, or sitting in classes where every lecturer and student came from a different part of the world – I wanted to experience it all. That diversity and energy really excited me. 

 

Traditional Wiener Schnitzel

On a personal level, I was quite a shy person before going abroad. I lacked a bit of social confidence and knew that putting myself in a completely new environment would help me grow. Erasmus+ felt like the perfect challenge – a chance to build confidence and come out of my shell. 

And finally, of course, it doesn’t hurt that it looks great on a CV! I wasn’t quite ready to go into my final year and say goodbye to university life just yet, so Erasmus+ felt like the perfect way to make the most of my time as a student. Earning the international title on my degree was something I really wanted. 

Outside the Austrian Parliament after a free tour on Austria’s National Day, 26 October

How did you make friends and network?
I made most of my friends through social media, which might sound funny, but it really works if you’re careful and use it safely. In today’s world, social media is such a powerful tool for connecting with people. I used Instagram and TikTok hashtags like #Vienna and #ErasmusVienna to find other students who were also heading there. Everyone was in the same boat, wanting to meet new people and make the most of the experience.

I also made a big effort to talk to people in my lectures. I’d sit beside someone new and make conversation, and sometimes that would lead to grabbing a coffee or planning a study session. Some of my closest friends came from those small interactions.  

Enjoying traditional Kaiserschmarrn and a melange

In my accommodation, I met my best friend completely by chance – over a frying pan! She lived just a few doors down, and we’ve been inseparable ever since. We’re planning on visiting each other soon.

At the famous big red bow that is hung up during Christmas time with my sister who came to visit me! 

I think you can make friends anywhere if you put yourself out there. I wouldn’t have described myself as an outgoing person before Erasmus+, but living abroad changed that. Everyone is so welcoming and you quickly become more confident and open. Joining the local Erasmus Student Network (ESN) is a great help too! There were lots of student events, socials, and trips organised. 

Watching Before Sunrise, a film set in Vienna, on the rooftop of a metro station

How did you manage your money and your search for accommodation? 
I started saving early. I worked a part-time job every weekend the year before I left Ireland so I’d have enough money to support myself abroad. I also received funding through the Erasmus+ grant, which really helped. 

I created a plan before I went. I used websites such as Numbeo that showed the current cost of living in Vienna to estimate my expenses, including rent, food, transport, and activities. I followed a simple budget template to make sure I could live comfortably. 

Finding accommodation was probably the trickiest part because I left it quite last-minute (something I definitely wouldn’t recommend!). I used a mix of social media, student housing sites, and online reviews to compare different options. I also checked the location carefully because the University of Vienna doesn’t have one central campus; its departments are spread out across the city. It’s important to know where your department is based before choosing where to live. 

However, Vienna’s public transport is amazing, so no matter where you live, you can get around easily. Personally, I wanted to live either alone or with one other person and have my own kitchen. Other students preferred shared flats or bigger student residences, so it really depends on what suits you best. After all, you’re living there for several months, so you should feel comfortable and happy in your space! 

What about the language barrier? Do you have a favorite word or phrase in your host country’s native language?
I didn’t speak any German before moving to Vienna, and I only picked up a few basic phrases while I was there. Looking back, I do wish I’d taken German language classes before going, because some of my friends did and I was definitely a bit jealous when they could communicate more easily. That said, I never really struggled with the language barrier because almost everyone in Vienna speaks excellent English, honestly sometimes even better than me! 

My favourite phrase in German is “Bussi Baba”, which means “kisses, bye”. It’s an informal and affectionate way to say goodbye. I thought it was such a cute and charming expression, and I still catch myself saying it sometimes. 

Outside the Vienna State Opera building

Is there anything you wish you had known in advance of your Erasmus+?
I wish I had known just how quickly time flies once you’re there. Everyone says it, but you don’t realise it until it’s nearly over (I still can’t believe I am back in Ireland for my final year!). I would tell anyone going on Erasmus+ to make the most of every opportunity, travel when you can, say yes to new experiences, and don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. 

I also wish I’d started learning German earlier, even just a little, because it would have made some everyday situations easier and more fun. Other than that, I think I prepared well. 

Inside the Austrian Parliament in Vienna on 26 October for a free guided tour – all the parties’ seats

What did you enjoy doing in your host country? 
Honestly, everything! I know that sounds like a basic answer, but it’s true. That’s actually why I didn’t travel to as many other countries as some people did during Erasmus+. A lot of students were flying somewhere new every weekend, but I really wanted to savour the experience of living in Vienna. I kept thinking to myself, “I’ll never be 21 and living in my own little apartment in the centre of Vienna again,” so I wanted to enjoy every moment of it (I really loved romanticising my life!). 

Schönbrunn Palace horse rides

There was always something happening in the city. Every time I stepped outside my door, there was an event, a celebration, or a festival of some sort. Every one of them had its own kind of magic. During the summer, there was the Donauinsel Festival that lasted three days, and the Schönbrunn Palace classical concert was unforgettable. And then there were the famous Christmas markets. The city always felt alive and changing. I never got bored of exploring. 

Drinking Glühwein at the Christmas markets; each market around the city had different style mugs (I brought them home with me!) 

I took some time to travel around Austria itself, and that made me fall in love with the country even more. I rented a car and drove through the south and west, around Hallstatt and the lakes, and I honestly think it’s one of the most beautiful countries I’ve ever seen. The mountains, the water, the small villages – everything looked like it belonged on a postcard. I’d love to go back one day, maybe to go hiking in the Alps or swimming in the lakes again. 

The soundtrack of your stay?
It has to be “Vienna” by Billy Joel. Even before I went, that song was on repeat. I’d listen to it while daydreaming about what my life might look like there – walking through the city, studying in cafes, meeting new people, and just starting afresh somewhere new. It became the soundtrack to my anticipation and excitement, as well as my nerves.  

The lyric “But then if you’re so smart, tell me why are you still so afraid?” really resonated with me, especially when I was preparing to go. It reminded me that even though I was doing something brave, I was still scared, and that it was okay to be. It was like the song was telling me not to let fear hold me back.  

Then there’s the line “You can get what you want, or you can just get old”.  That one hit hard too. It made me realise that I didn’t want to let life pass me by. I wanted to take the risk to go on Erasmus+, to get what I wanted, to experience something extraordinary rather than play it safe.  

And of course, “Slow down, you’re doing fine” took on a whole new meaning once I was actually there. Those words reminded me to live in the moment, stop overthinking, and to enjoy where I was even when things felt uncertain or overwhelming. 

When I finally left, I listened to the song again on the plane home. I won’t lie, I did shed a few tears on the flight. It felt like the song had come full circle, from representing my hopes and nerves before I left, to capturing everything I’d learned along the way. The lyrics reminded me that everything happens in its own time, and that even when things seem impossible, everything really is fine. Even now, while writing this, I’m listening to it again, and it makes me feel so nostalgic. It’s amazing how a song can take you right back to that exact time and place and remind you of everything that made it so special. Vienna really does wait for you! 

Ice skating outside the Rathaus during the famous Christmas markets

Has Erasmus+ changed you? What lessons and skills did you take home?
Erasmus+ absolutely changed me.  

Academically, I gained great knowledge in anthropology, sociology, and political science. I developed strong presentation and research skills, adaptability, patience, and motivation. Obviously, there were some challenges, but those small difficulties taught me to be flexible and resilient. 

But beyond that, it really opened me up to different cultures and ways of thinking. I genuinely love talking to people from all over the world and I’ve learned to approach life with curiosity and openness. I feel incredibly lucky to have developed this perspective, and it’s something I know will stay with me for life. 

Being abroad also encouraged me to try new things and say yes to opportunities I might never have considered before. I got a part-time role with my student accommodation in Vienna as a digital marketer, which gave me experience in photography, videography, and marketing. These are skills I’ve been able to apply in other areas of my life and work to this day. 

Tell us what you’re doing now since undertaking your Erasmus+.
Since returning home, I’ve been keeping busy with a mix of volunteering and professional roles connected to studying abroad. I joined Erasmus Student Network (ESN) Maynooth as Head of Events, organising activities for current Erasmus+ students. It’s been so rewarding to stay in the Erasmus+ “bubble” and meet so many like-minded people who are also passionate about travel. We’ve run everything from global music quiz nights to sip-and-paint sessions and cultural events like a Samhain celebration.  

I’m also working in the International Hub at Maynooth University as a Study Abroad Ambassador. In this role, I promote the benefits of Erasmus+ and other study abroad opportunities, answer questions, provide peer mentoring, and help students prepare for their time abroad. I support them once they’ve been allocated to a host university, giving advice and easing any nerves before departure. I’ve been told by my manager that we’ve had one of the highest numbers of Erasmus+ applications the university has seen to date, which reflects both the Hub’s new location and the work of the Study Abroad Ambassadors through marketing and outreach.  

I’ve also been selected as a National Erasmus+ Ambassador – an initiative coordinated by the Higher Education Authority and ESN Ireland – promoting Erasmus+ student mobility at a national level. 

These roles wouldn’t have even crossed my mind if it weren’t for my own Erasmus+ experience. They’ve allowed me to meet amazing people and contribute to a cause I care about while gaining leadership and organisational skills. 

And without Erasmus+, I wouldn’t have discovered this ambition to study or work abroad, or the excitement of exploring life in different countries. I’d love to return to Vienna in the future, but I’m also considering other cities in Europe.

The beautiful Rathaus in the springtime with the cherry blossoms blooming

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All photos are reproduced here with permission from Kamila.

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