I remember how thrilled I was upon first learning of LSE’s new exchange program with CEU, and having lived in Vienna for almost a year now, I can firmly say that I have hugely enjoyed my study abroad experience. Due to advances in both my personal and academic development, I shall head into my final year at LSE feeling much better prepared and with a much clearer vision for the future.
Firstly, studying abroad has enriched me academically, for CEU’s offering of interdisciplinary courses has not only given me a broader education, but also enabled me to experience a completely new style of teaching. These courses were facilitated by the university’s highly international community, allowing me to gain an insight into the perspectives of people from a range of different countries on numerous social and political issues, thus enhancing my intercultural awareness.
In addition to the academic aspect, living in Vienna, often hailed as “the world’s most liveable city”, has enabled me to become familiar with a new culture and a more laid-back attitude towards life.
I shall now return to the UK having acquired a better sense of what I appreciate and value in a city, and with the ability to view my own culture through a different lens. One of my main goals during my time abroad was to improve my German skills, and whilst my ability to do so was in part impeded by English being the dominant language at CEU, I do now feel more confident at speaking the language in an everyday setting. Furthermore, Vienna’s strategic location at the heart of Europe meant that I was able to travel to places that I otherwise may never have visited; in doing so, I was able to improve my previously limited historical knowledge of the region.
Looking to the future, the break from my studies at LSE has enabled me to reflect on where my true interests and strengths lie, and I now have a much clearer mindset regarding my future career plans. Furthermore, I have become much more open into looking at career opportunities outside of the UK upon graduating, as I feel more confident in my ability to live and work in a foreign country.
All in all, the past 10 months in Vienna have absolutely flown by, and upon reflection I am hugely grateful for the opportunity LSE gave me to study abroad. It has truly been an invaluable experience, and I would recommend all future students to apply.
By David Parsonage GO LSE student (2022/23)