Details

• United States of America
• BBE-18
• Undergraduate
• WS 2025
• Time spent at the partner university: 4 months

1. Preparation

Once your exchange destination is known, first thing you should research is, obviously, visa related procedures, if any needed. This is especially important when you are a non-EU citizen, as you might need to manage your status both in your exchange destination and in Austria. Other than that, it's important to constantly check your emails for updates regarding practically anything. Also, try to get yourself familiarized with the area your destination university is located, particularly when your destination isn't in a college town.

2. Accommodation

In my case, Emory had enough accommodation for all the incoming exchange students at their dormitories, however, since almost all of the rooms were shared with another person, and the bathrooms were shared with two more, I went for options that gave me more private space. I rented a room in a house in a nearby town, which was 15 minutes away from the school by car. For anyone going to Emory, if you don't mind sharing space with multiple people, I would suggest going for the dorm option. If you are like me, you can look for rooms to rent, but you need to heed a few points: (1) make sure that the location is close to Emory, or at least in on the route of one of the Emory shuttles (you can check those online). Also, (2) check the neighborhood, and make sure the house has all the necessary amenities (especially a washing machine, or at least close a laundromat). In my case, I was in a pretty safe neighborhood (though I still wouldn't recommend going far away once the sun sets), and I had all the grocery shops and restaurants (even a movie theater) in walking distance. However, I needed to take a bus, whose interval was 1 hour, before I reached an Emory shuttle that would take me to Emory. One tip I wish I'd known beforehand is how car-centric the infrastructure is in the US.

3. Academic life at host university

Emory is a huge university with many schools. Mine, Goizueta Business School, has it own building (two buildings actually, connected wings) with infrastructure that had everything you would look for. Academic culture changes based on the school your courses are from; if you are taking courses at the business school (as you will be required to for at least 3/4 of your courses), the material is simpler compared to WU, which leads to more competition, and since the courses are curved, some might actually struggle (although I believe for anyone who's studied at WU and takes their classes seriously, it is rather lighter). If you are taking a course at the College of Arts & Sciences, the classes might have slightly heavier materials (depends heavily on the specific course you take). Teaching style is what makes Emory stand out, in my opinion. First off, the professors are more down-to-earth and accessible. They are so skilled at what they do to the point that they are one of the best in their field, on top of having huge industry experience. They are more than happy to answer your questions, regardless of how "pointless" or "low-quality" your questions can be. They are also available during their office hours; you can just meet them at their office and ask them to explain any topic you couldn't understand again, especially during the exam weeks. Given the low complexity of the course materials and the friendliness of the lecturers, classes and the overall learning experience is much more enjoyable and engaging compared to WU. Overall, I can say that this was the best education I have received so far.

5. Every day life in the host country

Public transport is one of the biggest problems in Atlanta, and in most of the US. The infrastructure is simply incomparable to what you've seen in Vienna. You have two options, stay at a dorm, walk to the school or take the university shuttle (which is pretty good) and use ride-hailing apps for all the other needs (grocery shopping, etc.), or time your schedule according to the local transportation network's schedule and take the not-so-appealing buses and/or metro. If you have to go for the second option, safety is another question you need to consider. Although, I never had any real issues doing so, I still wouldn't recommend taking public transport (1) on your own, (2) at night, and (3) if you can't defend yourself. Regarding social/leisure activities, you'll have plenty of them in the US. From concerts to sports matches, you have a plethora of options. Also, Atlanta has the busiest airport in the world, and you can take a flight to the other major east coast cities for reasonable prices (if you plan ahead, even for the west coast and non-continental US) on the weekends. If you are lucky enough, the university will provide free tickets for MLS and NBA games and have tickets for NFL games a very low price. If you are a person who prefers to explore museums and historical venues, or, if you prefer night life, you might actually be a bit disappointed.

6. Testimonial

Great academic experience, one that easily compensates any other shortcomings you may experience. Great food and nice culture, you'll see a blend of the southern culture and the Atlantan rushed way of life. And finally, once-in-a-lifetime experience to explore the whole United States.