Erasmus+ in St. Pölten: SumDU Student Shares Her Experience of Studying in Austria, Travelling, and Discovering New Opportunities

The spring semester of 2026 became a special chapter in the life of Daria Mariukha, a student of the Faculty of Electronics and Information Technologies at Sumy State University. Studying for a Bachelor’s degree in specialty 122 “Computer Science”, within the “Information Technology for Design” educational programme, Daria had the opportunity to spend a semester in Austria at St. Pölten University of Applied Sciences.

The student shares her impressions of studying abroad, life in Austria, travelling across Europe, and the moments that will stay with her forever.

“My Erasmus+ experience in St. Pölten during the spring semester of 2026 became one of the best experiences of my life,” Daria says.

One of the advantages of studying in St. Pölten was its location — just about 30 minutes from Vienna. At the same time, Erasmus+ gave Daria an opportunity to travel and discover different parts of Europe.

During her semester, she visited Vienna, Salzburg, Hallstatt, Innsbruck, Prague, Dresden, Venice, Malta and Sicily. She also travelled to Lake Como, Naples and Milan, and even managed to visit London.

“Studying just 30 minutes from Vienna is already incredible, but what impressed me even more was how many opportunities Austria offers,” the student says.
One of the most memorable moments of the semester was Daria’s 20th birthday, which she celebrated on a beach in Sicily.
“I celebrated my 20th birthday on a beach in Sicily — something I had once only dreamed about,” she recalls.

The academic experience itself was equally important. According to Daria, St. Pölten University of Applied Sciences exceeded her expectations with its modern campus, numerous spaces for independent study, and a practical approach to education.

“The university itself exceeded all my expectations. It has a modern campus and many spaces for independent work. The learning process was based on practice, teamwork and real-life cases. We didn’t just listen to lectures — we discussed ideas, worked in teams, took on different roles and learned through practice,” Daria explains.

She also remembers the unique atmosphere of university life. Once the weather became warmer, students could study outdoors by the lake and then go swimming after classes.

“When the weather got warmer, we could study by the lake and then go swimming afterwards,” Daria recalls.

For Daria, however, Erasmus+ was about much more than studying abroad. It was a time of new friendships, independence, discoveries and travelling — an experience that allowed her to look at student life from a completely different perspective.

Based on her own experience, Daria encourages other students who are considering applying for Erasmus+ not to hesitate and to take advantage of the opportunities available to them.

“If you are wondering whether you should apply for Erasmus, my answer is an absolute YES!! It is an opportunity you definitely won’t regret!”