One of the first moments I really felt like I was in Europe was when I started using public transit. Back home in the United States, I am used to cars being the main way of getting around, but in Europe buses, trams, and trains were the heartbeat of daily life. I bought a pass…
Tag: Graz
The Charm of Slower Shopping
One of the most difficult parts of my host culture to adjust to was the way businesses operated and how much earlier everything closed compared to the United States. At home, I am used to having access to grocery stores, pharmacies, or even restaurants late into the evening. Abroad, I quickly learned that most places…
Bridging Barriers Through Language
During my time abroad, one of the most surprising and rewarding lessons I learned came from experiences outside the classroom. I discovered how powerful it can be to make the effort to speak another language, even if only a few words. When my friends and I tried to speak German in Austria or Slovenian in…
A Step Towards Practicing Medicine Globally
I was fortunate enough to study healthcare during my time abroad. This experience taught me many lessons that will stick with me long after the end of my program. My career goal is to be a practicing physician worldwide, working with Doctors Without Borders, so this experience was perfect for me. It gave me the…
Connecting with Locals: The Key to Study Abroad Success
5. As your program comes to a close, reflect on the outside of the classroom lessons that you have learned. How do you plan to apply these and take them forward into the rest of your academic career at Pitt and beyond? The main lesson that comes to mind is a rather simple one –…
Exploring Graz: A Walkable City Experience
4. During your program, we want you to focus on an area of infrastructure, society, or culture that interests you OUTSIDE of your coursework on the program. Think about things like what is advertised versus not; use and modes of transportation; access and attitudes around healthcare; sustainability; etc. What similarities and differences can you find…
Culture Shock!
3. Tell us about your first “wow” or “aha” moment – think about that experience, interaction, or even mistake that really drove home the point that you are in a different country or culture. How can this moment become a learning opportunity? I remember when we first arrived in Austria. Exhausted, but happy to be…
Growing through Study Abroad
1. Outside of the coursework on your program, how do you expect to grow personally and professionally on the program? It’s our expectation that every student on a global experience will face culture shock, language differences, and homesickness. We encourage you to think beyond these opportunities for growth and really dig into your own goals…
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,…
Reflecting On My Time in Austria and Slovenia
Our first week was packed with lectures and many tours. We kicked off with a citywide tour that was full of history and observing the lifestyle of the people in Graz. It was very different than my hometown in New Jersey, with people mostly using public transportation, bicycles, and walking instead of using cars. There…