My Study Abroad adventure in France and Austria

Are you thinking about doing a year abroad? My name is Yael and I’m one of your Student Content Shapers. Today I’m here to tell you about my time abroad. It's hard to believe it’s been three years since I began my year abroad.

As I was studying French and German, I was lucky enough to spend the first half of my year abroad studying in Paris and the second half working as an English Language assistant in the small Austrian city of Graz. 

My year abroad was a life-changing experience for me, not only as it improved my language skills but also because it pushed me out of my comfort zone, encouraging me to make new friends and experience different cultures. 

Choosing where to go 

As I was studying a modern languages degree, I was required to work or study in a French and a German speaking country. But for me deciding which French country to move to was a no brainer! While we were given the choice to travel as far as Canada, I chose to spend a semester studying a bit closer to home at the Université Paris Diderot in Paris. I had always dreamt of living in Paris, so when I discovered I had the chance to study there I leapt at the chance.

However, for the second half of my year abroad I was less sure. I knew I wanted to work in a German speaking country, but I was unsure of which one. In the end I decided to become an English Language assistant with the British Council, choosing Austria as my country of choice. This was a big risk for me as I could be sent anywhere in Austria. Although this was nerve wracking, I am so glad I took the risk as the city I ended up in, Graz, was better than I could’ve imagined. I had never heard of Graz before, so the chance to experience a completely new area was an experience I will never forget! The year abroad is a chance to explore new cities and countries, so a place you know nothing about may surprise you! 

What my year abroad taught me 

While my main goal for my year abroad was to improve my language skills, I found the experience of living abroad also improved me as a person. Living in a new area where I knew no one encouraged me to come out of my shell and get involved in activities to meet people. I found this increased my confidence and made making friends so much easier when I began my Masters two years later. 

It also gave me more confidence in my academic abilities. Experiencing university in a new country with a different style of teaching and assessment reinforced my faith in my knowledge and gave me a boost of self-assurance going into my final year. I always say that my year abroad was just what I needed before going into final year. It is a chance to expand your understanding through new experiences and new knowledge before you take the step into final year.

Should I do a year abroad?

Without a doubt I would recommend a year abroad. Even if you do not study a language, the skills, experiences and memories you gain make the experience more than worthwhile. I would not have met my best friend if it wasn’t for my year abroad, so I am so glad I took the leap.  Just imagine what you will experience if you choose to study abroad!