Exchange Semester at the University of Applied Sciences Technikum Wien
Elizaveta Botalova and Alexander Sherstov shared their impressions of the exchange program at the University of Applied Sciences Technikum Wien in Vienna.
Elizaveta
At the beginning of the 2020–2021 academic year, I received a unique opportunity to participate in the international student mobility program between the National Research University Higher School of Economics (HSE) and the University of Applied Sciences Technikum Wien in Vienna.
To participate in the mobility program, I went through HSE’s full competitive selection process. I submitted my application in March and worked on document approvals throughout the spring. Eventually, I received confirmation that I had been selected for the University of Applied Sciences Technikum Wien.
Of course, the preparation for the trip didn’t end there. I had to finalize my Individual Study Plan (ISP) and apply for an Austrian visa. I encountered no issues with the ISP—my program’s academic office handled everything flawlessly. The visa, however, was more of a challenge. Due to the COVID-19 situation, it was difficult to get an appointment at the embassy. But I managed to resolve that too. Then there was the problem of purchasing plane tickets—there simply were no flights. Luckily, just in time for my departure, a charter flight was arranged by an airline, and that’s how I got to Vienna.
Vienna gave me the warmest welcome. During my first week there, I was settling in—buying essentials, meeting the dormitory director, and getting to know my neighbors. As for housing, I opted for a student dormitory, which is the most affordable and comfortable option in Vienna. Don't confuse Viennese dorms with those in Moscow. In Vienna, you get a private room with your own bathroom, shower, bed, wardrobe, and desk. It feels more like a four-star hotel room than a dorm. The only inconvenience is the shared kitchen and fridge, but everyone adapted quickly, and there were no issues.
During the second week, I was invited to the university to sign and fill out the necessary documents. The entire process was swift—I was genuinely impressed with the organization. A week later, the classes began. However, instead of academic courses, we first had an orientation. For two weeks, the University of Applied Sciences Technikum Wien fully sponsored various social and cultural events for international students. We visited bars, cafes, parks, museums, and exhibitions. During this time, we got to know one another and made lots of new friends from all over the world.
Then the academic semester officially began. The learning process in Vienna isn’t difficult—it’s more like a dialogue with your parents. The professor introduces a topic and asks questions. The class responds, engages in discussion, debates, and defends their opinions.
Classes didn’t take up too much of my time, so I was able to travel around Europe and throughout Austria. It was much cheaper than flying from Russia, so I made the most of the opportunity.
Vienna is a beautiful city with many attractions. Thanks to the fact that I spent nearly half a year there, I had the chance to visit most of the well-known places. It was an unforgettable experience, and I highly recommend it to everyone.
The semester flew by. It was genuinely sad to leave such a hospitable city, which gave me so many positive emotions and meaningful new connections. I’m certain that this experience will have a lasting impact on my life and career.
Alexander
My name is Alexander Sherstov. I’m a 4th-year undergraduate student at HSE, majoring in Business Informatics.
Recently, I had the chance to gain an incredible, unforgettable international exchange experience at HSE’s partner university, the University of Applied Sciences Technikum Wien in Vienna. Vienna, the capital and largest city of Austria, is located in the northeastern part of the country. It’s a vibrant metropolis with unique charm and energy. Its historic center is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Vienna is considered Europe’s cultural capital—romantic, open, and rich in historical heritage. The city is full of grand imperial squares, lavish palaces, landmarks, and masterpieces of art. It’s also one of the most popular cities in Europe.
The first thing I’d like to highlight is the excellent organization. The HSE academic office was incredibly responsive, answering all my questions and helping with all necessary documents. This made preparing for the trip to Austria much easier.
Secondly, the academic staff at Technikum Wien were true professionals. All formalities were handled on my very first day, and there were no language barriers—everyone spoke fluent English.
Thirdly, the orientation program was outstanding. We had two full weeks of free cultural activities, all organized and funded by the host university. We visited the Vienna Zoo, multiple museums, a winery, popular bars, cafes, and went on excursions. Throughout all these events, we were constantly socializing with other international students. They came from across Europe, the U.S., and even Brazil.
I chose Vienna for my mobility semester because it’s one of the oldest cities in Europe. I wanted to immerse myself in the architecture and visit famous sites—and I was able to do just that. The University of Applied Sciences Technikum Wien is the first applied sciences university in Vienna and the largest technical applied sciences university in Austria. Students have access to a university library and a range of campus facilities, including sports centers. There’s a cafeteria, and the building layout is simple and intuitive—you won’t get lost.
I lived in a student dormitory—the most affordable housing option in Vienna. Each floor has a shared kitchen that also serves as a dining and lounge area. The top floor, instead of a kitchen, features a library and study room. In my dorm, there was even a piano that students often played.
On the ground floor, there’s the administrative office, a cozy lounge with sofas, and a cafeteria. In the evenings and on weekends, the cafeteria was a lively place full of students.
In the basement, we had a small gym, a sauna, a game room with ping pong, and two laundry rooms.
I want to especially highlight the high quality of education at the University of Applied Sciences Technikum Wien. The professors are true experts in their fields. They’re approachable and open to discussion, always willing to debate and explore topics that interest you. I learned a lot of new things and mastered several important disciplines.
I’m extremely happy I took part in the exchange program. It gave me invaluable knowledge and experience that I believe every student should have. And most importantly, it gave me unforgettable memories that will stay with me for life!
After returning from their exchange, Elizaveta and Alexander launched a project—Mobility Net, an online platform to support students participating in academic mobility programs.
This platform allows students to share their experiences and access valuable advice and information.
More details are available in the Mobility Net presentation: Mobility Net
Elizaveta's feedback
Alexander's feedback
