Adapting to a New City: Rapid Strategies for a Swift Settlement
Vienna, 23 September 2021
Starting university life in a new city can be an exciting yet daunting experience. In Austria, particularly in cities like Vienna, here are some key tips to help you settle quickly and feel good during your first semester.
Participate in orientation programs: Universities like FH Campus Wien organize orientation weeks each semester to help new students get accustomed to campus life and the city[1]. These events are an excellent opportunity to meet fellow students and get a feel for the university environment.
Secure student accommodation: Consider rooms in halls of residence such as those offered by STUWO, or look for shared apartments via official university Facebook groups or bulletin boards. Shared housing is a great way to meet fellow students and integrate socially[1]. The Gemeinnützige Studentenwohnbau AG also offers last-minute accommodation, accommodation in Vienna and Graz, and vacation rentals.
Use support services like buddies: Many universities offer buddy programs where local or experienced students help newcomers with questions and settling in, offering both practical and social support[1]. This can be particularly helpful when navigating the new city and university system.
Learn or improve German: Enroll in German language courses at university language centers. Benefits often include discounts and grants which make learning more accessible and help with daily life and studies[1].
Plan your shopping and errands gradually: For essentials, make small shopping trips first rather than buying everything at once; this avoids wastefulness and helps you adjust to local stores and products[2].
Familiarize yourself with local navigation: Learning how to use public transport (e.g., Vienna’s U-Bahn system) and navigation apps will make moving around easier and reduce stress[3]. Taking a walk around the city can help discover new areas and reduce fear of getting lost.
Engage in classes and social activities: Attending varied classes and participating in cultural or social activities facilitate meeting new people, forming friendships, and feeling part of the community[4]. The University Sports Institute Vienna offers over 160 different sports and around 1200 courses per semester, providing opportunities to take sports classes and meet new people.
Making new friends involves getting out of one's comfort zone, being authentic, and talking to new people. Exploring the city as a tourist can help with orientation and is a fun activity. Using apps like Bumble BFF or Meetup can help find potential friends or participate in events with people who share similar interests.
Volunteering with ÖH Austria is another way to meet new people and get involved in the community. The Austrian Students' Union (ÖH) offers volunteer opportunities in various departments, including education, international activities, and press and public relations. Hosting parties, dinners, or movie nights can help create opportunities for socializing.
By following these approaches—orientation attendance, effective housing choices, language learning, gradual acclimatization to local life, and building a social network—you'll find that you settle faster and enjoy a smoother transition during your first semester in Austria[1][2][3][4].
[1] FH Campus Wien: https://www.fh-wien.ac.at/ [2] STUWO: https://www.stuwo.at/ [3] Wien U-Bahn: https://www.wienerlinien.at/ [4] University Sports Institute Vienna: https://www.uni-sport.at/
- To assimilate quickly into the Viennese lifestyle, consider participating in home-and-garden activities such as exploring local markets to buy fresh produce for your home-cooked meals.
- As part of your university life, engage in lifestyle activities that immerse you in local culture, like attending a home-garden show or even volunteering at a community garden.
