As my time in the Comparative Healthcare in Graz program comes to a close, I’ve found myself reflecting not just on the lectures and assignments, but on the countless moments of learning that happened outside the classroom—in the cobblestone streets of Graz, the quiet corners of Vinzidorf, the peaceful Slovenian countryside, on trains gliding between…
Tag: Austria
Comparing Daily Life Across Borders: Infrastructure
One of the most eye-opening aspects of my time abroad, when comparing aspects of life, outside of the formal coursework, was how much public infrastructure reflects a society’s values, especially in Austria and Slovenia. Coming from the U.S., where public transportation often feels like an afterthought, I was struck by just how seamless, reliable, and…
The “Aha” in Empathy: My Visit to Vinzidorf
My first real “aha” moment came during a visit to Vinzidorf, a small community in Graz, Austria, that provides housing and comprehensive support services for individuals experiencing homelessness. I had expected to see a temporary shelter or emergency housing system similar to those in the U.S., but what I encountered was profoundly different. Vinzidorf isn’t…
Two Countries, One Lesson: Going Abroad to Compare Healthcare in Austria and Slovenia
Hello! I’m Hannah, and I’ll be visiting Austria for three weeks and Slovenia for one week through the Comparative Healthcare in Graz Program offered by Pitt as a Panther Program. Outside of the structured coursework of the program, I expect to grow both personally and professionally by immersing myself in the cultural and systemic differences…
Adventures in Austria (& Slovenia): Final Reflections
Welcome back! It is hard to believe that my time abroad has officially come to an end. This past month has been absolutely incredible, and I am grateful for how much I’ve grown, both as a student and as a person, for the memories I made, and for the people that I met along the…
A Reflection of My Time in Austria and Slovenia
My study abroad experience in Austria and Slovenia was a rollercoaster of emotions, but it was an experience that was tremendously worth it. Academically, there were more practical-life skills and lessons we learned regarding healthcare that would not have been possible to witness in the US. We visited a myriad of clinics, hospitals, elder-care facilities,…
Farewell for Now: Reflecting on My Unforgettable Journey Through Austria and Slovenia
Hallo! Zdravo! My study abroad experience in Austria and Slovenia has finally come to an end and as I reflect on it, I can say that it profoundly shaped my outlook on healthcare and will significantly influence my future career as a dentist. The knowledge and skills I gained during this journey will be invaluable…
Adventures in Austria: Checking in at the halfway point!
Welcome back! I’ve been in Graz, Austria for a little over three weeks now, and it’s hard to believe that this program is almost over! The past couple of weeks have been filled with a blend of medical and cultural-related activities, providing a unique opportunity to learn, while also having a lot of fun. I…
Halfway through my journey in Graz!
Hallo again, everyone! I can hardly believe it, but I’m already halfway through my study abroad experience in Graz, Austria. The past two weeks have been nothing short of incredible, filled with new experiences, learning opportunities, and personal growth. With two more weeks to go, I’m excited to share my reflections and some of the…
Austria Bound: Prepping for Yuki’s European Escapade!
Hallo everyone! My name is Yuktasree Pinisetti and I am a rising senior on the Pre-Dental track. I’m majoring in Biological Sciences with dual minor in Chemistry and Neuroscience and a certificate in Conceptual Foundations of Medicine. I plan to attend dental school after I graduate in hopes of becoming a dentist! In my free…