Medical University of Graz
How did you draw up your Learning Agreement?
Preparing the Learning Agreement was complicated. The issues were caused by the differences in module system that Medical University of Graz (MUG) and RSU have. MUG has three modules per semester and each has a large number of credit points (6 or 7 ECTS). Some modules are combined and differ from the ones at RSU. As a result I had to take some of the modules my coursemates will cover in year 6, and other modules that others took now, I will have to take next year.
Example: at RSU I should have taken a module "Internal diseases II", which includes pneumonology, haematology and oncology. At MUG pneumonology is part of module "Innere Medizin I", haematology is in module "Innere Medizin II" and oncology is not a seperate subject - it is mentioned throughout other modules.
How is the study process organized in the receiving university? What is different compared to RSU?
The study process is different from that at RSU.
First difference noticed by mobility students is in traineeships. Each module has mandatory traineeship days in either inpatient or outpatient departments (depends on the module). Sometimes we had to write patient's medical history. In Austria students are offered to do their mandatory traineeships (Famulatur) even before the last year. Traineeships are great - you are allowed to do as much as you can - even prepare different documents under the guidance of the dector. The traineeships have great focu on obtaining practical skills.
Second difference is in the structure of the modules. You only have three modules per semester, which results in having to focus on a group of subjects that you take for about a month (e.g., neurology, neurosurgery and geriatrics are all in one module). Each module is followed by an exam - those are generally harder than at RSU, and require greater individual work andlearning beforehand.
Third difference - the attitude that doctors and teachers have towards the students. They see students as their future colleagues and treat them as such and try to teach them as much as possible.
There are lectures (usually recorded ones), seminars (where we discuss some complex topics) and practical classes.
What were the living conditions?
When it comes to living space - I d4ecided to find everything on my own. Even though some students chose to rent apartments, I decided to stay in home4students Neutorgasse student dormitory. The main reasons for it - socialisation and lower costs. The dormitory was very good, it had everything I needed. When looking for the dormitory I paid attention to the location - city centre - and I lived 5 minute walk away from the main city square.
Graz is half the size of Riga, but the city is active and full of entertainment opportunities.
Your advice and recommendations for others choosing this city for their mobility
Pay attention to the Learning Agreement - ask other students, which are the better modules to take (you can find me and ask me on social media). If you can, l would also recommend taking a Famulatur.
Be aware that in the first couple months you may end up having a "language shock", even if you have good command of German, as a different dialect of it is spoken in Austria. If you have poor level of German, I would recommend considering other countries for your mobility.
If you will take many belongings with you, I recommend using courier services. I can tell you more individually.
And another recommendation is travelling! Austria is a beautiful country and travelling is worth it!
The most valuable realization or lesson you have learned
Same as with everything else - don't be afraid and take action! If you want to improve your language skills make yourself speak the language, even if English may be the easier language to use. Don't be afraid to approach the teachers and doctors with the questions you have or if you want anything. There is no reason to fear living in another country.
