My name is Sabine Haspel, an Austrian living only 24 kilometers from Vienna. This is now my fourth semester at the International University. Before, I spent one year each at the University of Vienna and at the Economic University Vienna. Looking back now, I feel that this was wasted time. However, God moves in mysterious ways.
When I first learned about this institution I was very impressed by the international curriculum and student body. Also the atmosphere was quite different here. Although the students were all coming from different places and speaking different languages they seemed to have no problems understanding each other. The International University was the linking forum. Now I am part of this International Family. There are students here from all over the world bringing their culture right here to Vienna. A student at The International University has the whole world represented on the campus. I have found friends here from all over the globe, coming from different nations and religions.
This is most exciting to me. When there is a particular event, whether economic or political anywhere in the world, I have the chance to talk to people coming from this region allowing me a glimpse through the eyes of the concerned. This way I can learn to put myself in the position of those who are affected by the decisions made in the chambers of politicians. Personally, I think that every diplomat or politician should have those experiences included in their training. In this context, I remember the week when Yasser Arafat was on his death bed. In some classes, the anxiety of some fellow students was sensed by everyone.
The Ukrainian Elections have also been a hot issue. The International University Vienna has many Students from Ukraine as well as from Russia. It was very interesting for me to have discussions about that with people from both nations. Many of those students are also studying for their master’s degree in diplomacy. In addition to their first hand knowledge and experiences they also have the academic skills, scientific knowledge and moral sensitivity to filter their thoughts and emotions.
There are many reasons to decide to study at this University, but the one that was primary to me was the possibility to get a truly international education directly in Austria, my home country. With the possibility of working in the office and getting an academic scholarship for my good grades, I was really able to make this great chance affordable for me. Another very important aspect for me is the chance to get working experience along with my studies. There are a variety of tasks in the office which are giving me a lot of useful training. Sometimes I even wonder whether I am first priority student or officer.
I am very glad to be a student at this University. Not only can I profit from my courses but also from the student body and from my work in the office.
