Hallo from Graz, Austria! I am halfway through my comparative healthcare study abroad trip in Graz and I am very excited to share what I have learned and experienced these past two weeks.
My New Community
Graz is the second-largest city in Austria, after Vienna, and it is the capital of Styria, one of Austria’s 9 federal states. Like Pittsburgh, it is largely inhabited by students as it is home to the second-largest university in Austria: University of Graz! It even has its own landmark similar to Cathy! A historic clocktower dating back to the 17th century sits on top of the Schlossberg hill, so that it overlooks the city and can be seen from almost anywhere in Graz.
My Life in Graz
Graz is a beautiful city marked by great food, rich history and many adventures! Everyday here has been full of new and exciting experiences. Some days I have class for most of the day, and others I attend tours of the city and culture or tours of care facilities as I am studying comparative healthcare here. My days have been super busy and fast paced, which has been hard to adapt to but completely worth it! I’ll go through and name some of the adventures I have went on, both medical-related and recreational!
University Hospital Graz – We toured some of this maximum care hospital campus. It is one of the largest hospitals in Austria! It reminds me of the community of UPMC hospitals that we have in Pittsburgh.
University of Graz Botanical Garden – We toured the botanical gardens to observe how Austrians use different herbs medicinally!
Red Cross Graz City – We got to learn about the role of the Red Cross in Austrian healthcare. The large majority of ambulances used in Austria are from the Red Cross, whereas in the US the Red Cross is usually only utilized in disaster relief and disaster preparedness.
Mozaik – We toured this large facility which is a non-profit organization providing care, advice and support to those with disabilities. It offers services such as outpatient therapies, kindergarten, calming/sensory rooms, and even hippo-therapy!
Graz Opera – We experienced a very important part of Austrian culture and entertainment: the opera! We enjoyed a performance of Venus in Seide.
University of Graz Library – Some days I have chosen to study at the beautiful library on the University of Graz campus!