Introduction to a New City: Strategies for a Swift Settlement
By Christina Pichler, September 23, 2021
Moving to a new city for university can be an exciting yet daunting experience. As you embark on this new journey, here are some strategies to help you acclimatise, make friends, and prepare for the upcoming semester.
Embrace the university community by volunteering with the Austrian Students' Union (ÖH). This opportunity not only provides a fresh perspective on the university but also offers chances for better studies, the opportunity to work with cool people, and opportunities to get involved in the community [1].
The University Sports Institute Vienna offers over 160 different sports and around 1200 courses per semester. Participating in a sports class not only counters the stress of university life but also provides an excellent opportunity to meet new people [2].
Making friends involves talking to new people, staying authentic, and attending events, especially in student dormitories [1]. Freshers' events, hosted at the start of the semester, are an excellent way to get to know the university campus and other students. Hosting events like parties, dinner events, or movie nights can help create opportunities to meet new people [5].
Bumble BFF and Meetup are apps that can help find potential friends or participate in events with people who share similar interests [6]. Making the most of your living situation by interacting with roommates or flatmates genuinely, such as helping with moving in or organizing small social gatherings, can also help with settling in and meeting new people [1][2][5].
Remembering people’s names and cultivating multiple friend groups instead of relying on one group helps create a wider support network [1]. Small gatherings or parties with icebreaker games can also foster friendships and ease socializing [5].
Navigating a new city can be challenging, but taking a walk around the city, using public transportation, can be a fun way to explore and get to know the city [7]. Discovering the city as a tourist can help with orientation and can be done through Big Bus, free walking tours, or self-guided exploration [7].
Many students need a job to finance their studies, while others seek professional experiences. A job in an interesting company can offer a lot of experience and put students in contact with people who share similar interests and goals [8]. Networking events can provide opportunities to connect with people in a certain area, whether in person or online [8].
The Austrian Students' Union (ÖH) offers volunteer opportunities in various departments, including education, international activities, press and public relations [1]. Attending these events can provide opportunities to meet professionals and expand one's network.
In conclusion, consistency in showing up, being open, and engaging in mixed social contexts at university and around the city creates natural opportunities to make friends and feel at home quickly. With these strategies in mind, you're well on your way to thriving in your new university life in Vienna.
[1] Austrian Students' Union (ÖH) volunteer opportunities: [contact information provided] [2] University Sports Institute Vienna: [website link] [3] Joining local hobby or interest groups: [website links for Bumble BFF and Meetup] [4] University-organized events and clubs: [website link for university events calendar] [5] Hosting events for making friends: [tips for hosting events] [6] Bumble BFF and Meetup apps for finding friends: [app download links] [7] Exploring the city: [website links for Big Bus, free walking tours, and self-guided exploration] [8] Finding a job or attending networking events: [website links for job listings and networking events]
Joining local home-and-garden clubs or condo resident groups can offer another avenue to meet individuals with shared interests, providing an opportunity to get involved in the community [Not specified]. Building strong relationships requires continual effort, and making an effort to nurture and deepen connections with your roommates or flatmates can help you create a comfortable home-and-garden life [1].
