IES Abroad - Study Abroad in Austria

The IES program in Vienna created one of the best experiences I have experienced and will ever experience in my life. The staff was extremely attentive in the process of preparing for study abroad and while in Vienna. They created incredible opportunities for us such as setting up a ski trip to the Alps, provided us with insider information on our new city, and have a hot line to call in at any hour in emergencies. IES really set up a home base for me while studying abroad in Vienna. I lived in an apartment in the 5th district of the city with an easy 20 minute commute to school (Vienna’s public transportation system is so easy). Classes take place in an old palace in the city center between the Opera house and St. Stephen’s cathedral. For many classes I got to tour museums during class period and really learn about art, history, architecture and psychology first-hand. The central location enabled me to explore the ins-and-outs of Vienna on a daily basis after or between classes. The IES program helps make things happen for its students. They make known events such as the film festival at the Rathaus and they help create incredible experiences. They helped us get discounted tickets to an infamous Vienna ball and provided dancing lessons to prepare. I was able to see the dress rehearsal for a world premiere at the State opera house. We were able to have a big Thanksgiving dinner in a traditional countryside tavern. And they helped people get involved with locals through setting up local German language buddies and helping students get internships. The program at IES Vienna creates a community and enables its students to explore and soak up every possible second of the most incredible semester imaginable.

If you are wondering if this program is for you then I have your answer, it is. This program is for everyone regardless of major or interested there is something for everyone in this program. It is well organized and the staff are amazing, they are truly there for your best interests. Vienna is an amazing and easy city to live it.

I had an amazing time with IES Abroad! They did an amazing job with orientation - they made sure to prepare us for the cultural differences we would be experiencing, how to navigate around the city and find our niches, and gave us tips on how to blend in in the city. I felt a lot more prepared and comfortable with my city than my other peers studying elsewhere. They also provided a lot of options for academics - I did not have to take a semester away from my main courses and the professors were very qualified and great resources to use.