You’re on your own, Kid
Last year at this moment, I was busy writing SOPs and applying for universities for my Master’s. It was challenging to narrow down the universities from which I wanted to choose my degree (Computer Science or Technology Management).
I was confident that I would be relocating to the United States to follow my aspirations after receiving acceptance letters from Carnegie Mellon University, Northeastern University, and Purdue University.
However, life is unpredictable.
I received two fully funded scholarships from European Union to pursue my Master’s across Europe.
There were many zoom calls and debates on where to go, and I made the right choice (Maybe)!
As I packed my bags and said goodbye to my friends and family, I couldn’t help but feel excited and nervous. I had no idea what to expect, but I was determined to make the most of this opportunity.
15th September 2022: Landed in a small town in Austria’s heart (Salzburg).
Welcome to the musical hub, whose rich history and love for music are celebrated throughout.
The first few days were difficult because it was pouring and cold (I went from a temperature of +40 to -4). I somehow gained autonomy walking to Ikea in the pouring rain with my classmates to get the essentials and grocery shopping. After two weeks, classes began, giving me adequate time to adjust.
I could critically evaluate the technology I love and its impact on society because of my coursework. My favorite “Digital Communication Theories” class addressed everything from the digital divide to filter bubbles. The class was anxious to learn and explore the myths of the digital world with guest lectures from the UK, Vienna, and Egypt.
3rd November 2022: RedBull IT Experience Day. I have been invited to attend the workshops and lectures in the Redbull Campus in Salzburg; I was the only non-german speaking person. However, the staff was very kind and ensured I had a great experience.
5th November 2022 : GastroHackathon at the Alles für den Gast in Salzburg. It was a great experience to brainstorm, design, and code for 24 hours. I learned IOS development for the first time and implemented a successful app. Damn, proud of myself.
Well, the first semester is almost finished. Grad school has been a wild rollercoaster, with many deadlines and proposals to write.
It has been one of my favorite Christmases ever. With international dinners, the autumn school in Wolfgangsee, visiting salt mines in Hallstatt, watching my first ice hockey match in the stadium, seeing snow for the first time, ice skating, visiting Christmas markets, and sipping mulled wine.
Wishing you a Happy New Year! May 2023 be as adventurous and thrilling!
Stay tuned for more!
