Between Vienna and Munich

Hallo zusammen! My name is Hannah, I’m 21 years old and I’m from Austria (I can’t even type these last three words without ironically hearing the song of the same name by Rainhard Fendrich in my head – an Austrian classic, if you want to check it out). On most days, you’ll probably find me spending time in the park with my friends, at my favourite cafés, or attending a yoga class. I love long city strolls, getting lost in art museums – especially the Albertina – and enjoying the sun at the Danube.

Almost four years ago, I moved from my hometown in Burgenland to Vienna to study there. Last year, I finished my bachelor’s degree in Media and Communication Science, and I am now in the second semester of my master’s. Writing and reading have always been a big part of my life, so I knew from early on that I wanted to study something related to words and language. I enjoy learning about the impact communication can have and how to use it purposefully, be it in public relations or journalism.

As my bachelor’s was coming to an end, the looming question “What’s next?” came up. I knew I wanted to continue my studies, so I started researching master’s programs. LMU was one of the universities I looked into more closely, especially because of its diverse and specialized programs. In the end, I decided to stay at the University of Vienna, as I absolutely love the city (definitely would recommend it for a weekend getaway) and enjoyed my previous study experience there. Still, LMU and Munich stayed in the back of my mind, which is why I decided to spend at least one semester here through the Erasmus programme.

Munich and Vienna certainly have a lot in common: you always (!) stand on the right side of the escalator; as soon as the sun comes out, every green space is filled with people of all ages; and we speak the same language (at least most of the time). But in the first weeks here, some differences have also become apparent: green traffic lights don’t flash before turning red, there are surprisingly few benches (in Vienna, every park is full of them), and most importantly, Austrian German is not quite the same as German German. Speaking from experience, you’d better be careful not to order a Brezel, as we say in my hometown, instead of a Brez’n here!

I’m really looking forward to everything this semester has to offer – academically, but also personally. I hope to build something like a second home here, immerse myself in Bavarian culture, explore the city and its surroundings, and build connections with new people. I’m excited to broaden my horizon, keep learning, and make the most of this experience.

My Munich bucket list is long—so let’s get started! :))