Preparing for Student Life @ MUL

University of Leoben Leoben, AUSTRIA

International Relations

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Before Arrival 4 Admission, Visa/Residence Permit, General tips 7 Arriving in Leoben 10 Housing 11 Academic Calendar 12 Registration in Leoben 13 Registration at the University 13 Courses & Examinations 14 Library Facilities 15 Computer Labs 16 Sports 16 Medical Assistance, Insurance 17 Finances 20 Local Transportation 21 Travel within Austria 22 International Travel 22 Telephone 23 Postal Services 25 Religion 26 Shopping 26 Eating Out 27 Meeting Places 28 A Few Facts about Leoben 29 Important Abbreviations 30 Important Phone Numbers 30 Consulates and Embassies 31 Austrian National Student Union 31 Let’s Party 31 Conversion Table 32 Leoben City Map 34 Sample of “Meldezettel” (municipal registration form) 35 Getting along in Austria 36 Adjusting to a New Environment 36 Personal Well-being 43 Characteristics of Austrians 38 Discrimination 44 Austrian German 39 Accommodation 45 Social Customs 40 Waste Management 46 Making Friends and Relationships 42

Dear student,

Welcome to the University of Leoben!

We hope that you will have an interesting, profitable and stimulating term, semester or year at our university. We at the International Office will attempt to make your intercultural experience in our country and at our university even more pleasant.

"Hard facts", as you will find out, mean very little until you "live" them. Factual information can never produce an intercultural experience in itself. Experiencing a foreign culture means engaging oneself in dialogue: a foreign culture does not exist by and for itself but only becomes "real" once you have committed yourself to interacting with it. In fact, one could say that cultures only exist as distinct entities because foreigners recognize them as being different from other cultures. This difference between cultures can cause problems. However, if you bear in mind that people react differently to specific things concerning all fields of life due to characteristic habits and customs, and if you are willing to understand and accept that, nothing can go wrong anymore. This guide, then, is designed to give you a few "hard facts" for handy reference to help you initiate your integration.

Your advisors at the International Office and your fellow students will be your primary sources of information. If problems arise just feel free to contact us.

When can you come and contact us? Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, 10am – 2pm

International Relations Mag. Cornelia Praschag and Helene Perci Universitaet Leoben Peter Tunner-Str. 27 A-8700 Leoben, Austria

Telephone: +43 (0)3842 402 7230 Fax: +43 (0)3842 402 7202 e-mail: [email protected] [email protected] http://www.unileoben.ac.at/ir

3 BEFORE ARRIVAL

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS:

I. APPLICATION FOR UNDERGRADUATE ADMISSION

1. Admission

The applications for admission of international students who wish to begin or to continue their studies at the University of Leoben have to reach the university at least by September 1 for the winter semester and by February 1 for the summer semester of each year (date of entry) complete with all necessary documents. The registration deadlines do not apply to students from EU-member states (rolling admission).

In addition to the application form, the following documents must be submitted: a) secondary school leaving certificate ("Reifezeugnis") with all subjects taken and grades obtained; b) for international students beginning their studies: evidence of admission to the course of studies of at least 4 years’ duration at a technical university in the country where the secondary school leaving certificate was issued, for the semester/year in which admission in Leoben is sought; c) for international students continuing their studies: evidence of all courses already taken (individual transcripts, diploma- or State examinations), and a confirmation of the continuing admission to studies at a technical university in the country where the secondary school leaving certificate was issued for the semester/year in which admission in Leoben is sought. d) copy of passport or e) birth certificate (no duplicate!!) f) 5 international postal reply coupons (if available)

2. Authentication of documents

All documents must be submitted in the original. Documents issued in foreign languages have to be translated into German or English. Foreign documents can only be accepted with the required authentication. Information on the legal requirements for documents and translations must be obtained from the nearest responsible Austrian mission.

Authentication – Africa, India, Mongolia, Pakistan, Syria, Iran, Iraq:

4 in order to save expenses for future procedures. For identification it is important to provide school documents, baptism- and hospital-birth documents. The questionnaire which is attached has to be filled in completely and correctly and has to be originally signed and submitted in original. All relevant documents have to be submitted in original and copy. The lawyer fee for verification has to be paid directly and in cash at the embassy. The procedure of verification can take several weeks. To facilitate a quick processing, a completely and correctly filled questionnaire and submission of all relevant documents is absolutely necessary. Wrong or missing statements or documents will result in considerable delay of the procedure.

3. Knowledge of German, supplementary examinations

Basically the language of instruction is German. International students whose knowledge of German cannot be sufficiently documented, have to pass the university's German exam before they can be admitted as degree students.

If the obtained secondary school leaving certificate is not equivalent to an Austrian diploma ("Reifezeugnis"), international students have to pass supplementary examinations. You will receive information on the dates after admission. The University Preparatory Course provides preparatory classes for the German exam as well as for the supplementary examinations. While taking these classes, international students are admitted as students with provisional status ("außerordentliche Studierende"). Please send to this address: Zentrale Verwaltung Universitaet Leoben Franz-Josef-Strasse 8 A-8700 Leoben, Austria/Europe

II. APPLICATION FOR GRADUATE ADMISSION

1. Admission

In addition to the application form, the following documents must be submitted:

a) secondary school leaving certificate ("Reifezeugnis") with all subjects taken and grades obtained; b) for international students beginning their studies: evidence of a bachelor degree program of at least 4 years’ duration at a technical university. c) for international students continuing their studies: evidence of all courses already taken (individual transcripts, diploma- or State examinations), and a confirmation of the continuing admission to studies at a technical university in the country where the

5 bachelor degree certificate was issued for the semester/year in which admission in Leoben is sought. d) copy of passport or e) birth certificate (no duplicate!!) f) 5 international postal reply coupons (if available)

2. Authentication of documents

Authentication – Africa, India, Mongolia, Pakistan, Syria, Iran, Iraq:

Documents can only be authenticated after verification of the documents by a lawyer authorized by the Austrian embassy responsible for the home country. The owner of the documents has to come in person to the embassy. Therefore an appointment has to be made. In case of an intended future application for a visa, residence permit etc, it is recommended to supply all the necessary documents for that purpose (see http://www.help.gv.at/Content.Node/HELP-FC.html) and to have them checked altogether in order to save expenses for future procedures. For identification it is important to provide school documents, baptism- and hospital-birth documents. The questionnaire which is attached has to be filled in completely and correctly and has to be originally signed and submitted in original. All relevant documents have to be submitted in original and copy. The lawyer fee for verification has to be paid directly and in cash at the embassy. The procedure of verification can take several weeks. To facilitate a quick processing, a completely and correctly filled questionnaire and submission of all relevant documents is absolutely necessary. Wrong or missing statements or documents will result in considerable delay of the procedure.

3. Knowledge of German, supplementary examinations

If an obtained bachelor degree certificate is not equivalent to an Austrian Diploma, international students may have to pass supplementary examinations of the Leoben bachelor degree program first. The Dean of Studies decides on that.

The University Preparatory Course provides preparatory classes for the German exam. While taking these classes, international students are admitted as students with provisional status ("außerordentliche Studierende ").

Please send to this address:

6 Zentrale Verwaltung Universitaet Leoben Franz-Josef-Strasse 8 A-8700 Leoben, Austria/Europe

VISA/RESIDENCE PERMIT:

1. Students staying for a maximum of 6 months

Please use the following link at the website of the Austrian exchange service: http://www.oead.at/welcome_to_austria/legal_practical_issues_tips/entry_to_austria/national s_of_third_countries/stays_of_up_to_6_months/EN/#c1630

The Austrian representation authority may ask for additional documents in individual cases.

All documents have to be submitted in the original and in photocopy. All documents have to be legalised and documents in languages other than German or English have to be submitted together with a legalised German translation.

Visa cannot be renewed in Austria.

After having entered Austria with or without a visa you are not allowed to take up any employment.

Austrian consulates and embassies in your country can be found on this website: http://www.bmaa.gv.at/view.php3?r_id=1&LNG=en&version=

Consulates and embassies in Austria can be found on the same website.

II. Students staying for more than 6 months

A fee of EUR 110.00 is payable for the residence permit. The visa for collecting the residence permit in Austria is free of charge.

7 Within 3 working days of entry into Austria you have to register with the registration office (Meldeamt) in your place of residence. If you wish to work in Austria beside your studies please make sure to enquire about the legal regulations before taking up a job! Working in Austria illegally may lead to fines or prison sentences as well as to expulsion from the country. Before expiry of the residence permit you can apply for its renewal in Austria

III. Renewal of residence titles http://www.oead.at/welcome_to_austria/legal_practical_issues_tips/entry_to_austria/renewal _of_residence_titles/EN/ Only residence titles (residence permits (Aufenthaltsbewilligungen) and settlement permits (Niederlassungsbewilligungen)) can be renewed in Austria. The application for a renewal should be submitted before expiry of the original permit. Until a decision about the renewal has been taken you may – even after expiry of your original permit – stay in Austria. if you have to leave Austria for a short time before you received the renewal of your permit the authority can add a confirmation to your travel document upon your application which will enable you to re-enter Austria (this, however, is not the same as a Schengen visa!) Applications which are submitted after the expiry of the old permit are handled as an application for a renewal until 6 months after the expiry of the old permit. If you apply for a renewal after the expiry of the old permit twice or more you may incur a penalty.

For the application you need the following documents: • fully completed and signed application form • recent photograph with size between 3.5 x 4.5 cm and 4.0 x 5.0 cm • travel document, e.g. passport • registration form (Meldezettel) • Proof of accommodation: e.g. tenancy contract, accommodation contract of a student hall of residence • Proof of a health insurance valid in Austria • Proof of sufficient funds to finance your stay • students only: confirmation of their continuing university enrolment (Bestätigung über die Meldung der Fortsetzung des Studiums) and (after the first year of study) proof of successful study of 8 hours per week per semester in each academic year or 16 ECTS credit points in each academic year • visiting lecturers and visiting researchers only: confirmation of their activities in Austria (e.g. employment contract)

If you signed an integration agreement when you first applied for a residence permit, you may also have to produce proof of your German proficiency or of having attended a German integration course.

For the renewal of the residence permit a fee of EUR 100.00 or EUR 110,00 is payable.

Holders of a residence permit "student" may apply for a quota-free settlement permit "key employee" (Niederlassungsbewilligung Schlüsselkraft) after graduation in Austria if all conditions of a "key employee" are met (has to be confirmed by the Public Employment Service [AMS]).

8 As a grant-aided student please note the information provided by the Austrian authority which has awarded the scholarship.

IV. Competent authority for residence permits in Leoben Bezirkshauptmannschaft Leoben, Peter Tunner-Straße 6, A-8700 Leoben, Austria, [email protected], Tel.:+43 (0)3842 45571, Fax: +43 (0)3842 47775.

GENERAL TIPS:

Make sure to bring a Xerox-copy of your passport and other important documents (such as your vaccination pass), in case you lose one of the originals.

Apply for an International Student Card (ISC) which will get you low student airfares, discounts to museums and serves as a type of identification while you travel. And get an ATM card with PLUS or CIRRUS access so that you can withdraw money from your home bank account while you are in Austria.

The voltage in Austria is 230V, so if you want to use your own electrical devices here in Leoben please check whether you need an adapter or not.

It would also be a good idea to bring some change with you for renting a luggage cart at the airport or making a phone call after you have arrived (you can change money in the arrivals lounge at the airport or at the train station).

As for budgeting your stay in Leoben, your expenses will largely depend on the type of housing you choose (single or double room in a student dorm, private accommodation) and on whether you eat out a lot or cook for yourself (which is what most Austrian students do). To be on the safe side, you should calculate at least € 500 per month (including housing, food and personal expenses). Also, you should keep in mind that Leoben is ideally located for trips all over Europe (Italy, Croatia, Slovenia, Germany, Switzerland, Czech Republic, Hungary etc.), so you should bring some traveling money.

The probably cheapest way of traveling around (before, during or after your exchange period) is to purchase a Eurail Pass. It gives you the freedom to roam about as you wish, without having to stop and buy a new ticket for every leg of your trip. There are several types of Eurail passes. If you stay in Austria for the academic year, you can buy an Interrail Pass for your travels during the summer semester (the Interrail Pass can only be sold to someone who has lived in Austria for 6 months already). For more information on Interrail look up page International Travel.

The climate in Leoben is continental, i.e. we have cold winters (lows are –10° to –15°C) and hot summers (around 30°C). In the winter, we normally get some snow but how long it stays is different from year to year. But, not to worry, houses and dorms are well insulated and have central heating, so the temperature indoors is always comfortable. For the winter months bring a good warm winter coat, gloves, a scarf, a warm hat and winter boots or a good pair of shoes with thermal insoles. You can of course buy these things when you are in Austria, too.

9 Bring a more formal outfit in case you want go to the opera, theater, casino or a ball.

If you want to know what the weather is like in Austria and Leoben at the moment, go to http://www.orf.at/wetter or www.wetter.at Here's a list of things you will have to buy/pay at the beginning of your stay:

• About € 30 key deposit (you get it back when you return the key for your room/apartment) • € 16 for insurance and student union • € 24/month for the Austrian student health insurance • € 7.25 for a bus card for the public transportation system (valid for one week, available at the tobacco store opposite the CA bank Franz-Josef-Strasse or on the bus). And maybe: • € 30 deposit for kitchenware and linen - if needed (you get it back when you return the utensils at the end of your stay) • € 200 and more if you decide to buy a bicycle • Approx. €15 if you decide to take a sports course with the 'Universitaetssportinstitut' (IBUS) • Maybe a refundable room deposit – you will be informed by the dorm management if you have to pay it and whether they need (parts of) it in advance. • Maybe an administration fee for the dorm • € 29 if you buy the student railway pass (Vorteilscard that gives you a 50% reduction on all train rides within Austria (if you’re under 26), bring your student ID.

ARRIVING IN LEOBEN

You should try and plan your trip so that you arrive in Leoben during the week and during the day. This makes moving into your student dorm much easier. If you fly to Vienna you will have to take the shuttle bus from Vienna airport to the train station called ‘Suedbahnhof’. This is how you proceed: After you have claimed your luggage and gone through customs at the airport you follow the signs with buses on them. The shuttle bus leaves every 30 minutes. The fare is approximately € 7 and you can buy the ticket at a booth just before you step outside of the airport or from the bus driver. When you get to the Suedbahnhof, proceed to the ‘Inland’ ticket window and buy a one-way ticket (‘einfache Fahrt’) to Leoben. It will cost around € 25. The trains to Leoben leave almost every hour (a few minutes after every hour, to be precise) but only every second one is a direct connection to Leoben. If you want to take a direct train look for trains with the final destination Villach. With the others you have to change trains once at Bruck an der Mur; not so big a deal really, unless you are traveling with a lot of luggage.

10 HOUSING

Normally international exchange students live in student dorms because it is the cheapest option and you’ll get to know a lot of people within a short period of time. Also, the rooms in our student dorms are not always big, especially compared to US residence halls. Most of the student dorms are about 15-20 min. away from the university if you walk, by bus or bicycle.

A typical dorm unit is set up with double rooms and single rooms, a shared kitchen-living room area and 2 shared bathrooms. The rooms are furnished, blanket and pillow are usually provided. Inform yourself if your dorm also provides china, cutlery, pots and pans!! • The monthly rent will be about € 180 for a double occupancy room and € 200 - 230 for a single room. The rent includes heating and electricity but not your telephone bill. • The refundable key deposit is about € 30.

You can also decide to share a private apartment with other students (‘Wohngemeinschaft – ‘WG’). This option usually is more expensive than living in a student dorm. Average costs for private accommodation are € 210-250.

For some rooms (in dorms and private housing) there is a room deposit which you will get back in full when you move out, provided the room is in the same condition as when you moved in.

Dormitory WIST Rosseggerstraße 10, 8700 Leoben Tel.: 0316 836666 Fax: 0316 836666 30 Email: [email protected]graz.ac.at

Dormitory of the Akademikerhilfe Schillerstraße 27, A-8700 Leoben Tel.: +43 (0)3842/4343710-13 http://www.akademikerhilfe.at/leobenschillerstr.html Application: Akademikerhilfe, Pfeilgasse 3a, A-1080 Wien Tel.: + 43 (0)1/401760

Dormitory "Schlägel und Eisen" Salzlände 16, A-8700 Leoben Tel.: ++43 (0)3842 43129 Fax: ++43 (0)3842 46068 E-mail: [email protected] Homepage: http://www.studentenheim.info/

Dormitory of the "Berg- und Hüttenschule Leoben" Max-Tendler-Straße 3, A-8700 Leoben Tel.: +43 (0)3842/44888 Homepage: http://www.htl-leoben.at E-mail: [email protected]

11 Dormitory of the "Austrian Student Union" Kerpelystraße 129, A-8700 Leoben Tel.: +43 (0)3842/24343, 24452, 25528, 26353, 27646, 27946 http://www.unileoben.ac.at/~oeh-heim

Josefinum (girls only) Erzherzog-Johann-Straße 4, A-8700 Leoben, Tel.: +43 (0)3842/42768

Dormitory of the Catholic Student Union Franz-Josefstraße 25, A-8700 Leoben Tel.: +43 (0)3842/45341

Karl Baumann KG (commercial landlord) Franz-Josef-Straße 10, A-8700 Leoben, Tel.: +43 (0)3842/42565

ACADEMIC CALENDAR

Our academic year runs from October to the end of June, i.e. 9 months. The spring semester starts in mid-February and there is a four week break at Easter. As already mentioned before, you should plan your arrival and departure according to the academic calendar of our university. The academic calendar can be found on our website (http://www.unileoben.ac.at). Go to the English version and then to “Academics”

There are also no classes due to official Austrian holidays on: October 26, - National Day November 1 & 2, - All Saints‘Day fall term December 8, - Immaculate Conception

March 19, - St. Joseph (patron saint of Styria) May 1, - Labor Day At Ascension spring term At Whitsun On Corpus Christi Day

12 REGISTRATION IN LEOBEN

Within three days of your arrival in Austria, you must register with the registration office. Every Austrian citizen and all foreigners intending to stay in Austria for more than three days are required to fill out so-called "Meldezettel" (registration forms, see page 35) and hand them in at the registration office. For registration you will need:

∗ "Meldezettel", which is available at the registration office ("Meldeamt"), you can also download it from the website http://www.leoben.at. ∗ your passport

The “Meldezettel” must be signed by your landlord or by the person in charge of the dorm.

Registration office: Einwohnermeldeamt Leoben, Neues Rathaus, Erzherzog-Johann-Strasse 2, room 108 Open hours: Monday to Thursday 8:00 to 16:00, Friday 8:00 to 12:00

IMPORTANT NOTICE:

∗ If you intend to change your address during your stay in Leoben, you must not forget to re-register. ∗ Also, you must not forget to cancel your registration before you leave Leoben.

REGISTRATION AT THE UNIVERSITY OF LEOBEN

Ask students to help you!

Documents to bring for registration:

a valid travel document (passport) 1 passport photo 3,5 cm x 5 cm. It is advisable, however, to bring 4 passport photos, since photos are also required for a number of other documents Notification of admission All documents that you had to submit for admission and which were returned to you

Your student ID will then be issued within the next two weeks and you can pick it up from the admissions office. With this card you can go to the library and get a library number (bar code) and you can open a computer account. It also gets you various reductions, i.e. on meals in the student cafeteria, cultural events, train travels within Austria etc. For more general information on the University of Leoben please refer to our homepage on the internet: http://www.unileoben.ac.at/ir

13 Tuition fee and student union fee must be paid in one amount with the original transfer form that you will receive. The deadline is printed on the form, pay some days in advance because the payment is only valid if it has reached our account before that day. Do not pay later than that or you will be charged an extra fee. You can register from mid-September till mid-October (winter semester) or mid-February till mid-March (spring semester).

COURSES & EXAMINATIONS

International students do not have to pre-register for courses at the University of Leoben, the registration for all the courses takes place after you have arrived in Leoben. You can look through the bulletins available at our Study Abroad Center to get an idea of what is offered. Also, course lists are available on the internet under http://www.unileoben.ac.at, academics, lectures at the departments The new course catalogues are on sale in the entrance hallway of the university's main building. For exchange students it makes things easier if you know the requirements of your home university and graduate students from another university should bring along course descriptions of the courses they have already taken at their home university.

German language courses:

The University of Leoben offers a range of German language courses during the semester that were especially developed to meet the needs of foreign students. They include instruction in grammar, conversation, oral text competence, and writing.

Naturally, our international students also have access to regular university courses offered by the different faculties and institutes of the University of Leoben. However, the language of instruction is usually German, so students must be fairly competent in German to be able to follow them.

Course types:

(1) Lectures (LE, “Vorlesung”) Most lectures cover 2 hours a week, there is no attendance list but the continuous reading of course material is strongly advised. Grades are based on the final exam (normally written), so don’t start studying at the end of the semester but learn continuously, otherwise the workload might be too much. (2) Integrated courses (IC) are those which combine various didactic methods for conveying knowledge and showing how to apply the knowledge. (3) Practicals (PR, “Übungen”) are for the expansion of knowledge provided in lectures. Students are instructed in a practical, experimental, theoretical and/or constructive way and learn skills in the framework of their academic professional training. (4) Seminars (S) are courses where students treat scientific work independently and give oral or written presentations which have to be defended in a critical scientific discussion.

14 (5) Project works (PW) are courses in which a written experimental, theoretical and/or constructive assignment is done. (6) Excursions (EX) provide a look into industrial practice of one or more subject areas. (7) Privatissima (PV) specialized research seminars. (8) Labs (LA) are courses in which students, in sufficiently small groups, are instructed in the practical application of knowledge gained from lectures.

The grading system for academic performance according to § 45(1) UniStG ranges from “Excellent” (1), “Good” (2), “Fair” (3), “Sufficient” (4) to “Failed” (5). Excursions are graded with “successfully participated” or “not successfully participated”. There are also ECTS credits which determine the workload.

Examination methods:

The Austrian educational system at universities strongly emphasizes the principle of academic freedom. Students can determine their own workload and whether they finish within the required ten semesters or whether they need longer. This system demands a high degree of self control from the students. There are written and oral examinations but no multiple choice tests. In higher semesters the exams will mainly be oral ones at the end of the semester and will cover the subject of the entire semester. Students are responsible for their performance themselves. If there is only one big oral or written exam at the end of the semester, students are well advised to learn continuously throughout the semester. Don’t start learning at the end of the semester because then the workload will be too much!!!!!

LIBRARY FACILITIES

The main library offers excellent working conditions and the borrowing of books is free. The library is an ‘open shelf’ library, which means you can browse through the books and periodicals in the reading rooms. Then you go to the circulation desk and sign a “loan slip” The loan period is 28 days but can be extended by another 28 days if the book is not needed by someone else.

In order to be able to use the main library you need to get a “loan card”. You fill out a so- called ‘membership form’ and bring along your student ID. If you need a certain book you look it up in the catalogues or online. You can also borrow books that the library does not own itself, they will be ordered from the respective domestic or foreign library by interlibrary loan. This costs € 1.60 per book or € 0.40 per copied page. If you order a book from foreign libraries you must also pay their fees and are subject to their loan periods.

In addition to the main library, some departments have their own libraries where you can actually browse. You can, of course, also make use of the Library of the Province of Styria (Landesbibliothek) in Graz as well. Also, due to the vicinity of Vienna, the library resources of

15 Austria’s capital (National Library, University Library, City Library) are within relatively easy reach (2 hours by train).

OPENING HOURS: Circulation desk Mo-Fr 8 - 17 Interlibrary loan Mo-Fr 8 – 12, 13 - 15 Online information service by arrangement Reading rooms Mo-Fr 7:30 –17 Periodicals reading room Mo-Fr 8 - 17 During vacations shorter library hours

COMPUTER LABS

The Bitcorner is on the first floor of the Petroleum Engineering building. Equipment: 30 PCs Notebooks can also be rented from Monday to Thursday from 10:00 – 12:00. Price: € 30/month Copy Service: Monday to Friday, 7:00 – 20:30

Not allowed are: eating, drinking, smoking, installation of software, multilogin As soon as you log in, your activities and the programs you open can be checked. So don’t do anything illegal and keep your password secret!! Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 7:00 to 20:30

SPORTS

The "Universitätssportinstitut" (IBUS), located in the basement of the red building (right entrance) in Peter-Tunner-Strasse 15, offers well over forty different courses (from badminton to white water rafting ) at a very low price. Registration for these classes, which are open to all students in Leoben, takes place at the beginning of each semester. Fees depend on the kind of course. If you register early for the next summer semester you can get a 50% discount. These courses are very popular and we highly recommend them for exchange students, because they are an excellent opportunity to meet Austrian students.

Hiking: 41 km of hiking routes in and around Leoben have been cleared and are constantly maintained. Maps are available at the tourists’ office on main square. Cycling: Leoben is located at the cycle-route “R2”, the “Tour de Mur”. Cycle tracks in the city are fully developed Soccer, athletics, trendy sports such as roller skating, curling: the leisure facilities at “Tivoli” offer ideal opportunities. Swimming: enjoy the Asia Spa right behind the university

16 Ice skating: The artificial ice rink in the AU is open from the end of October until the beginning of March. Skiing: Leoben offers a favorable starting position to the skiing area called Praebichl/Eisenerz with its best prepared ski-runs and cross-country ski courses. Golf: There is a golf course close to Leoben. Address: Golfclub Gai, Golfplatzweg 1, A-8793 Gai-Schardorf, Tel.: 03847 5008. Climbing: The Austrian Alpine Club will give you more information: Oesterreichischer Alpenverein, A-8793 Trofaiach, Hauptstr. 68, Tel.: 03847 4800-12. Shooting: There is a range close to Leoben in Trofaich

MEDICAL ASSISTANCE

Basically you have two options:

I) You can enroll in an insurance plan from your home country. In this case, be sure to have extended health cover and check how you have to file a claim. In most cases you will have to pay for your expenses yourself and then request reimbursement. So make sure your budget is flexible enough to cover any unforeseen health expenses.

II) We strongly advise our foreign students to register for Austrian health insurance ("Krankenversicherung"). For detailed information please visit this website: http://www.oead.at/welcome_to_austria/legal_practical_issues_tips/insurance/EN/

In Austria you may choose your own physician, generalist or specialist, by making your own appointment. You may also go to the "LANDESKRANKENHAUS" or to "STEIERMÄRKISCHE GEBIETSKRANKENKASSE (GKK)" itself. In very urgent cases during the night or on Saturdays/Sundays you may call the "ÄRZTENOTDIENST" (doctor's emergency service), phone: 141. They will make home calls. In case of an emergency, call the "RETTUNG" (ambulance), phone: 144.

If you stay in Austria during the summer term you are strongly advised to get a tick vaccination. For effective protection against tick bites (they can cause encephalitis) you need three shots; the first one around March and a booster 3-4 weeks later. The third shot is due a year later. Then you are protected for 5 years. You can go to GKK or a general practitioner. If you currently take medication, please bring an additional prescription and a letter from your doctor explaining why you need to take this medication (prescription dosages, etc.). Then, in case you run out of your medication, it will be easier for you to get what you need. If possible, bring enough medication with you to last throughout your stay. You might get problems with the Customs Office if you have medication sent to you.

Drug stores are called ‘Apotheke’ in Austria. You can get mainly prescription drugs there but they also sell aspirin, cough relief, vitamins and general painkillers or ointments over the counter.

17 MEDICAL DOCTORS

General Practitioners:

EDELHOFER, Gerald +43(03842)43140 , Judendorferstraße 51, 8700 LEOBEN FRISCH, Karin +43(03842)45665, Am Glacis 4, 8700 Leoben GENGER, Barbara 03842/47-0-68, Max Tendler-Straße 12, 8700 Leoben KRAINER, Maria Theresia +43(03842)81586 , Schönowitzstraße 18/I, 8700 Leoben-Lerchenfeld MAZENAUER-STOCKER, Sibille +43(03842)23201 , Kerpelystraße 69, 8704 Leoben-Donawitz MOGEL, Uwe +43(03842)22182 , Turmgasse 5, 8707 Leoben-Göß NEPEL, Gert +43(03842)45400 , Salzlände 15, 8700 Leoben OKTABEC, Karl Peter +43(03842)23938 , Josef-Heißl-Straße 3/I, 8700 Leoben PICHLER, Walter +43(03842)24645 , Turmgasse 3 A, 8707 Leoben-Göss RAUSCHENBERGER, Dieter +43(03842)42632 , Kaiserfeldgasse 6, 8700 Leoben STREITMAYER, Jürgen +43(03842)42976 , Judendorfer Straße 2, 8700 Leoben THANNER, Johann +43(03842)25725 , Lorberaustraße 19, 8704 Leoben-Donawitz ZECHLING-ASCHAUER, Barbara +43(03842)43782 , Homanngasse 3, 8700 Leoben ZORAIKI, Ibrahim +43(03842)21482 , Pestalozzistraße 93, 8704 Leoben-Donawitz

Eye specialists, Ophtalmologists

GRÜBLER, Gerhard Klaus +43(03842)453, Homanngasse 3, 8700 KERN, Michael +43(03842)45445 , Franz-Josef-Straße 5, 8700 Leoben MÜCKE, Michael +43(03842)45098 , Timmersdorfergasse 14, 8700 Leoben

Gynecologists

MEGLITSCH, Helmut +43(03842)45868 , Kaiserfeldgasse 10, 8700 Leoben SAUER, Kurt 03842/44-4-48 Franz Josefstr. 6/1, 8700 Leoben

Dermatologists

ACHLEITNER, Bernd +43(03842)44144 , Franz-Josef-Straße 8/II, 8700 Leoben

18 TRAUNER, Eva +43(03842)21600 , Waasenplatz 1, 8700 Leoben

Internal Specialists

FRODL, Herwig +43(03842)45210 , Parkstraße 3, 8700 Leoben RABITSCH, Helmut +43(03842)43674 , Roseggerstraße 15, 8700 Leoben WASCHNIG, Alois Franz +43(03842)45770 , Schillerstraße 3, 8700 Leoben

Pediatricians

NIKA, Waltraut +43(03842)42422 , Roseggerstrasse 23, 8700 Leoben WURM, Gernot 03842/47-9-93 , Erzherzog-Johann-Straße 9, 8700 Leoben

Orthopedic Specialist

HECHTL, Gerhard +43(03842)43084 , Roseggerstraße 18, 8700 Leoben

Neurologists

IRMLER, Andreas 03842 / 47 750 , Roseggerstr. 23, 8700 Leoben

Radiologists

PELZMANN, Willibald +43(03842)43900 , Hauptplatz 6, 8700 Leoben STAMPFEL, Gert +43(03842)44777 , Krottendorfergasse 13, 8700 Leoben

Urologist

FÄRBER, Klaus +43(03842)45666 Roseggerstr. 15, 8700 Leoben

Ear Specialists, Ortologists

SEITWEGER, Rupert 03842/47481 , Max Tendler-Straße 16, 8700 Leoben STROBL, Michael +43(03842)47482 , Max Tendler-Straße 16, 8700 Leoben

Dentists

EVANGELIST, Wolfgang +43 (0)3842 42 493, Josef-Graf-Gasse 1, 8700 Leoben

19 GRABLECHNER, Wolfram Franz-Josef-Strasse 1, +43 (0)3842 43 275 JEGLITSCH, Michael Roseggerstrasse 15/I, +43 (0)3842 43 298 KOWALSKA-STRULAK, Mariola Judendorfer Strasse 46 , +43 (0)3842 44 500 PISWANGER, Christian Max-Tendler-Strasse 19 , +43 (0)3842 44 488 STROBL, Anita , Turmgasse 3 H , +43 (0)3842 29 710

APOTHEKEN Telefon / Fax

Apotheke in Göss +43 (0)3842 22 284 Turmgasse 7

Glückauf Apotheke +43 (0)3842 44 810 Schießstattstraße 22

Apotheke zur Hütte +43 (0)3842 21 386 Pestalozzistraße 67

Josefee Apotheke +43 (0)3842 43 264 Franz-Josef-Straße 7

Stadtapotheke +43 (0)3842 42 351 / Krottendorfer Straße 6 +43 (0)3842 42 351 - 15

Waasen-Apotheke +43 (0)3842 22 526 / Waasenstraße 10 +43 (0)3842 22 526 - 41

FINANCES

The following coins and bills are available in Euro:

1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 cent coins 1, 2, Euro coins

Bills are available in 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500 € worth of value. The daily exchange rates for the Austrian Shillings are prominently displayed in the windows of most banks. If you want to change CASH, you may do so at any Austrian bank ("Bank" or "Sparkasse") without special identification. If you want to cash TRAVELLERS or EURO- CHEQUES you will have to bring along your passport for identification. All banks will accept these checks, but you will be charged a quite hefty fee (around € 7 for every transaction). PLEASE NOTE: You will have to pay cash for many expenses.

20 CREDIT CARDS (Visa and Mastercard) are usually accepted at major stores only but not in supermarkets, for instance. MASTERCARD is connected with the EUROCARD system and can be used wherever the EUROCARD symbol is displayed. The probably cheapest way of obtaining funds while you are abroad is to use a Cirrus or Plus debit card (and a four digit pin number). This way you can withdraw money from your U.S. bank account e.g.(€ 400 limit/day) plus the fee is low – but check with your home bank . In any case open an account at a bank in Leoben for the duration of your stay

LOCAL TRANSPORTATION

Buses:

The Leoben public transportation system consists of buses. Bus stops are designated by yellow signs with a large "H" in the center. "H" stands for HALTESTELLE (= bus stop). Signs displaying the routes and the time schedules of the individual lines are placed under the "H". The hub of all the Leoben transport is called ‘Busbahnhof’ where most of the buses go through. It is very central and a good point of reference for exploring the city or a meeting place downtown. Prices: Tickets cost € 1,50 per ride (valid for one hour) when purchased aboard the vehicle. You may transfer as many times as necessary in order to reach your destination within an hour after having validated your ticket. Here’s an overview of the prices for public transportation in Leoben:

• Einfache Fahrt € 1,50 Valid for 1 hour • Wochenkarte € 7,26 Valid for a week

Once you have bought your ticket valid for a week you need to stamp it once at the beginning of your journey. You will find little orange boxes spaced throughout buses , insert your pass into the slot and the ticket will be stamped with the date. Do not stamp it again. Next ride just show it to the bus driver. If you are caught traveling without a ticket ("Schwarz-Fahren") you will have to pay a fine plus the cost for the ride itself. At this point we would like to mention that most people in the city walk or ride their bicycles, it’s the cheap and healthy option that gives you a lot of freedom when you navigate through town.

Taxis:

There are several taxi companies in Leoben. You may either catch a taxi at one of the taxi stands (town square, train station, city bus terminal) or phone for a cab to pick you up.. The fare consists of the base fare and the fare charged for mileage and the duration of your trip. Most drivers speak a little English. The telephone numbers of some major taxicab companies are: 1718, 45620, 42400.

21 TRAVEL WITHIN AUSTRIA

Trains: The ÖSTERREICHISCHE BUNDESBAHNEN (Federal Railway) provide an efficient means of transportation with which you can reach most parts of the country. From Leoben, connections to Vienna, Klagenfurt, Linz, Salzburg and Innsbruck are well-developed. Train schedules providing arrival and departure times are available at the HAUPTBAHNHOF, where you may also inquire at the information booth. If you are not in the vicinity of the train station, simply call the train information, phone: 1717. You can also check by internet: www.oebb.at (Fahrplan).

If you are registered as a degree student at an Austrian university ("ORDENTLICHER HÖRER") and below the age of 26, you will be granted a 50% reduction on all train fares within Austria. To get the student railway pass Vorteilscard 26 you will have to take your "STUDIERENDENAUSWEIS" (student ID) and a photograph to the main train station. There, you will have to fill out a form and pay a nominal fee (approx.€ 20) for the pass, which must be re-validated each year. With this Card you can also get the “Summer Ticket” for € 49 an can travel to wherever you want in Austria from June 30 till September 8. If you are not a degree student, or if you are over 26, you have other options of travelling reasonably cheap by train, e.g. the ‘Umweltticket’ (same deal as the student railway pass but for € 86,48) the Austria ticket or the ‘Kilometerbank’.

Buses: Both the ÖSTERREICHISCHEN BUNDESBAHNEN and the ÖSTERREICHISCHE POST offer bus services to many of the smaller towns and villages not, or not efficiently, serviced by trains.

Air: Domestic air travel is relatively expensive and, given the small size of the country, not considered very efficient compared to train travel. More information on flights to Vienna, Graz and other locations can be obtained from AUSTRIAN AIRLINES. AUSTRIAN AIRLINES will grant a 25 % reduction to individuals up to 26 years of age on all Austrian Airlines' flights.

INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL

Trains: Your 50 % reduction is only applicable for train journeys within Austria, not in foreign countries. Reduced international tickets (EURODOMINO, TRANSALPINO,) can be purchased at the student travel bureau, STATRAVEL (Raubergasse 20, Graz Tel. 826262), the STEIERMÄRKISCHE LANDESREISEBÜRO at Hauptplatz, Graz or at the main train station. STATRAVEL can also help you to identify and book accommodation in major European cities; also check their catalogue or the homepage (http://www.statravel.at) for package tours and other offerings. Savings with such reduced international tickets are between 30 % and 50 % depending on the country you are going to.

A cheap way of traveling through Europe is the INTERRAIL ticket, it entitles you to unlimited train travel within a given period. However, you can only use this pass once you’ve lived in Austria for 6 months, so, for example, during the second semester of your exchange. Its price depends on how old you are and on the countries you want to go to. Please use the following list as a guideline, since prices might go up a bit or check the STATRAVEL homepage for the latest information http://www.statravel.at

With Interrail you also get a reduction of 50 % on train fare within the country in which it was issued.

Many international trains have couchettes and sleepers. Couchettes have an occupancy of six people. Sleepers, permitting you to lock up the compartment and change for the night, have an occupancy of two or three people. On their domestic routes, some Eastern European companies are cheaper. Reservations for sleepers, couchettes, and for regular seats can be made at the main train station

Air Travel: Air travel within Europe is relatively expensive and, given the excellent train connections, usually not necessary. Cheaper rates (not only for young people) are offered by ÖKISTA, the student travel bureau. AUSTRIAN AIRLINES will grant a 25 % reduction on fares on all Austrian Airlines international flights to individuals up to 26 years of age.

Buses: There are very few international bus lines, most of them seasonal, going to Italy, Hungary and some republics of the former Yugoslavia.

TELEPHONE

Telephone Calls: Calls may be made from private homes, phone booths or from post offices. The rates are the same in all cases and you pay for all calls, i.e. also local ones. It can’t be guaranteed that you have a phone in your place of stay because a lot of people use cell phones (called ‘handy’ in Austria – no joke!) If there is a phone in your apartment, you should talk with your flat mates and find out about the billing system of the company they use. Telekom Austria, for instance, sends out bimonthly phone bills where the individual calls are not itemized. There are two types of public phones in Austria. One takes only coins, the other only TELEFONWERTKARTEN. These phone cards may be used in phone booths carrying the sign WERTKARTENTELEFON and also for phones installed in trains. You can purchase phone cards (Telefonwertkarten) with different values at any post office and at the tobacconist’s ("Trafik").

Country Codes

23 The country codes of some countries are listed below. A complete list can be found on the first pages of any telephone directory as well as the rates. Generally speaking, it is cheapest to phone between 6 p.m. and 8 a.m. during the week and on Saturdays, Sundays and official holidays.

Country Country Code

Australia 0061 Belgium 0032 Bosnia-Herzegowina 00387 Bulgaria 0035 Canada 001 Croatia 00385 Denmark 0045 Finland 00358 France 0033 Germany 0049 Greece 0030 Hungary 0036 Ireland 00353 Italy 0039 Luxembourg 00432 Macedonia 00389 Netherlands 0031 Poland 0048 Portugal 00351 Slovakia 0042 Slovenia 00386 Spain 000034 Sweden 0046 United Kingdom 0044 United States 001

The area code for Leoben from within Austria is 03842; from abroad it is 3842. So, if you want to phone our office from outside Austria, you dial ++43 3842 402 7230. When you’re already in Austria, you just dial 03842 402 7230 If you call a cell phone in Austria from abroad, dial ++43 and omit the first zero of the cell phone number.

POSTAL SERVICES

Post Offices:

24 There are post offices throughout Leoben which are open Mon. - Fri., 8 a.m. - noon and 2 - 6 p.m. for letters, parcels, telephones, telegrams etc. Most post offices are closed Sat., Sun. (Please note that there is no mail delivery on Saturday and Sunday.) The HAUPTPOST (central post office) at Erzherzog-Johann-Straße has extended opening hours and the BAHNHOFPOSTAMT (post office at the train station) is open 24 hours seven days a week. Post offices generally also offer fax services.

EMS (Express Mail Service) is available from all post offices.

Parcels:

The gross weight of one parcel may not exceed 20 kg and must fit certain (fairly generous) dimensions. Prior to mailing the parcel, you will have to fill out various forms and itemize contents. Please be sure to use strong boxes, string and wrapping paper. You can obtain boxes from the post office or from food stores. Check charges on the website www.post.at.

NOTE: If you want to send a parcel to Leoben before you leave your country (e.g. with winter clothes, books, shoes etc), DO NOT SEND IT WITH A SHIPPING AGENCY (for example UPS). A couple of exchange students ran into problems doing that in the past because they were required to pay customs duties here in Austria. However, with parcels sent via regular mail there has never been a problem like that.

Some postage rates:

Within Austria:

LETTERS & POSTCARDS: regular mail € 0.55

International mail: LETTERS: Priority Europe: € 0.55 World: € 1.25 Surcharges: for special delivery ("Express") € 3 for registered mail ("Einschreiben") € 2.10

RELIGION

25 The vast majority of Austrians belong to the Roman-Catholic Church although only a small percentage goes to church regularly. Other denominations that can be found in Leoben include: • Lutheran, Protestant • Old Catholic • Islam

SHOPPING

When purchasing goods valued € 72.67 or more (sometimes € 145.34 or more) AND plan on taking them back home with you, you can get a form for "MEHRWERTSTEUERRÜCKVERGÜTUNG" (Value Added Tax reimbursement) filled out for you at the time of purchase. Shoes, coats and the like are good things to get money back on. The Tourist Information can give you more information on how it works. All prices in Austria include 20 % or 30 % VAT.

WOOLWORTH is the only department store downtown. Prices are reasonable. Cheap clothes can also be bought at VÖGELE

LCS is a big shopping mall on main square (H&M, etc)

DM stores ("Drogeriemarkt"), SCHLECKER or BIPA sell toiletry articles, detergents and cosmetics at inexpensive prices.

LIBRO, PAGRO: these chain stores specialize on office supply, Libro also sells CDs and books.

HOFER and LIDL are very cheap grocery stores and a shopping experience of a different kind.

A very popular place to shop for fruits and vegetables is the local farmers' market, which is open all morning on Tuesday and Friday. You can find it in the pedestrian zone in front of the Sankt Xaver church close to the town square.

SECOND HAND / EXCHANGE SHOPS

CARITAS MEGASTORE: Franz-Josef-Strasse 23 (opposite the university)

Opening hours:

Generally, stores are open Monday to Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. and Saturday between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. (and closed on Sundays). Smaller shops are closed on Saturday afternoon. Many of the larger stores and most food chain stores are open on Thursday until 7.30 p.m. If you urgently need something outside opening hours you can also go to gas stations or to SPAR at the main railway station.

EATING OUT

An average meal including beverages will cost between € 7 and € 11. Buffet lunches are offered at a cheaper price in some restaurants. A 10 % tip is already included in the prices of all meals or drinks. Most guests - except those who are utterly dissatisfied - will give an extra tip by rounding the final sum off. You may also leave the tip on the table. A very special kind of salad dressing is KERNOEL (pumpkin seed oil). It is dark like balsamico vinegar and has a nutty taste. It is a Styrian specialty.

There is one inexpensive student cafeteria called “Mensa” at the university, where a full meal costs around € 4-5. There are also a lot of low-budget restaurants, cafés and vendors in the area of the university.

And, last but not least, we do have a McDonalds!!

Hints for Vegetarians:

Almost all restaurants offer dishes such as SALATPLATTE (salad platter), GEMÜSEPLATTE (assorted vegetables), GEBACKENE CHAMPIGNONS (breaded mushrooms), KNÖDEL MIT EI (dumpling fried with egg), PALATSCHINKEN (crepes), EMMENTALER GEBACKEN (breaded Swiss cheese), GEMÜSESUPPE (vegetable soup), omelets and the like. On the menus of some restaurants you can even find a section titled "Vollwertküche" (organic food). There is no vegetarian restaurant in Leoben

Drinks:

If you order BIER (beer) without specifying your order, you will get the local variety. Beer comes in KRÜGERL (0.5 liter) and GLAS (0.3 liter) sizes and should be ordered using these terms. A”RADLER” is beer mixed with a soft drink, tastes good though.

Styrian WEISSWEIN (white wine, dry = "herb") can be highly recommended. It may be mixed with mineral water and is then called a "Mischung" or with soda water and is then termed a "Spritzer". Wine comes in sizes of 1/8 and 1/4 liter glasses.

Among non-alcoholic beverages, APFELSAFT (apple juice) is one of the most common drinks ordered in Austrian restaurants. Depending on whether you prefer it with mineral/soda water or without, ask for an "Apfelsaft gespritzt" or an "Apfelsaft pur". Of course COKE is served everywhere. ALMDUDLER is our kind of root beer.

MEETING PLACES

English Circle

Appointment: Every 2nd Monday at 17:00 and the following Wednesday at 9:30 Address: Peter-Tunner-Str. 19, Room 306 Contact Person: Dr. Erika AUGUSTIN Telephone No.: 43167 Get exposed to the Austrian people and their culture. Meet the Austrian community for an informal English conversation

German with Friends

Learn German out of the university, with indigenes. Discover the long, rich history and culture of the Austrian people Appointment: alternatively Monday & Thursday at 17:00 Address: Peter-Tunner-Str. 19, Room 306 Contact Person: Dr. Erika AUGUSTIN, ask for the exact date Telephone No.: 43167

Circle Francais

Appointment: every 2nd Tuesday of the month at 9:30 Address: Peter-Tunner-Str. 19, Room 306 Contact Person: Dr. Erika AUGUSTIN, Telephone No.: 43167

Le Baobab

Meeting place of African students. Informal conversation mimbo, peper soup (I-shewu), sound of drums, Tolley, kongosa Appointment: Every last Friday of the month Address: Salzlände 16, room 42

EHG

Protestant Student Circle Jahnstraße 1, 8700 Leoben (Protestant church next to the university) Protestant service: Jahnstraße 1, 8700 Leoben, Sundays at 9:30 Check the website for information: http://www.ehg-online.at

Chinese Circle

Jahnstraße 1, 8700 Leoben (Protestant church next to the university)

28 Meeting: every fortnight at 14:00 Contact: Mr.Sung, Telephone: 01 /8941592 or 0699 10 321 820 (mobile phone)

Turkish Circle

Website: http:www.unileoben.ac.at/~vtuerk/start.htm

KHG

Catholic Student Circle Franz-Josef-Strasse 25 (opposite the university) Telephone: 45341 Open from 7:00 to 22:00, service every 1st and 3rd Wednesday at 18:00 E-mail: [email protected]

Islamic Circle

Loberaustr. 17 A-8700 Leoben Contact: BAZINA Hossam, Tel: 0664 1145186 till 18:00

A FEW FACTS ABOUT LEOBEN

For a general overview of the history of Leoben as well as detailed information, please refer to the internet: http://www.leoben.at

Museums: The extensive Leoben City Museum, offering interesting temporary exhibitions, is located behind the Saint Xaver church. There you can also find the KUNSTHALLE which offers one very special and interesting exhibition each year.

Theater, concerts, exhibitions, cabaret: A detailed program for the theater and concert halls is listed in the daily newspapers. A monthly guide of current events is available free of charge at the Tourist Office on main square. Each summer there is one big pop concert on main square.

Newspapers: The most popular local papers are "Kleine Zeitung" and "Kronenzeitung" (yellow press). Concerning nationwide quality papers, "Der Standard" and “Die Presse” are quite popular among students and academics. Foreign newspapers are sold at the newsstand at the railway station “Hauptbahnhof”

IMPORTANT ABBREVIATIONS

ÖH Österreichische Hochschülerschaft – Student Union WS/SS Wintersemester / Sommersemster winter term / summer term IBUS Universitätssportinstitut – University Sports Institute ÖBB Österreichische Bundesbahnen – Federal Railway GKK Gebietskrankenkasse – Health Insurance Company LKH Landeskrankenhaus – University Hospital Clinic UKH Unfallkrankenhaus – Hospital Clinic OEAD Austrian Academic Exchange Service

IMPORTANT PHONE-NUMBERS

Fire Department ("Feuerwehr"): 122 Police ("Polizei"): 133 Ambulance ("Rettung"): 144 Doctor's Emergency Service ("Notarzt"): 141 Pharmacy Service for nights and weekends ("Bereitschaftsdienst der Apotheken"): 1621 Post Offices: 8800 Thalerhof Airport, Graz: 2902; 29-16-69 Train Station: 1717 (information on train schedules) Time: 1503 Weather: 1566 Phone directory (Austria and Germany): 11811 Phone directory (rest of the world): 11812 Student Union (ÖH), European Student Network (ESN) Franz-Josef-Strasse 18 8700 Leoben Tel. +43/3832/402/8101 e-mail: [email protected]

GEBIETSKRANKENKASSE (student health insurance): Muehltaler strasse 22, Tel.: 42942

VERY IMPORTANT NOTICE:

IF ANY KIND OF PROBLEM SHOULD ARISE; PLEASE DO CONTACT OUR OFFICE IMMEDIATELY, THINGS CAN ALWAYS BE WORKED OUT!

AUSTRIAN EMBASSIES AND CONSULATES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES EMBASSIES AND CONSULATES IN AUSTRIA

Please check the homepage of the Austrian Ministry for Foreign Affairs: http://www.bmeia.gv.at/view.php3?r_id=204&LNG=en&version=

AUSTRIAN NATIONAL STUDENT UNION

Austrian National Student Union

students for students motivated and engaged informative for any kind of problems with the university, your study program, living, working, ... on each university in Austria

You can find them in the old building of the university, next to the copy and coffee machines TEL: +43 (0) 3842 45272, E-mail: [email protected], URL: http://oeh.unileoben.ac.at The ÖH, the Austrian National Students Union, is a statutory body. The tasks of the ÖH are to represent the rights of all students studying in Austria to all the relevant bodies and to provide services for those students. The members of the ÖH are all students in Austria, the membership is compulsory. YOU will be a member of the ÖH as well.

LET’S PARTY

Cinema: The cinema of Leoben is called CINEPLEXX and is next to the shopping center in Leoben- Leitendorf, Zirkusstrasse 14. Each Wednesday night at eight they play a movie in English and on Friday night at ten there is a “sneak preview” where movies are played in their original language, also mainly in English. Reservation hotline: 299 22 299 Information: 299 220

Disco:

31 The HALLIGALLI is also at the shopping center in Leoben-Leitendorf. BOLLWERK is a large disco outside of Leoben at Niklasdorf. To get there you can share a taxi with friends.

Students’ favorite pubs: BELLINI: nice café and bar, you always meet some students there. Top floor in the shopping center Woolworth on main square SEGAFREDO: café, main square ANTONIO: Italian restaurant, between university and main square CORETTO: the biggest pizzas ever, opposite the train station CORTINA: Italian ice cream shop and café, offers cheap menus, during summer season at the main square A-HOF (Arkadenhof): typical Austrian food, excellent, main square PUB o’ CINO: here you can try 50! different kinds of beer LA PIZZA: take away pizza, Langgasse, near main square SUPPENKASPAR: offers excellent soup at reasonable prices STEHBEISLand BILLABONG: opposite the university for a quick drink, “Beisl” is Austrian dialect for pub. HABAKUK: opposite the Saint Xaver church in the pedestrian zone

There are also many cheap Chinese restaurants all over town. Some restaurants in shopping centers also offer cheaper meals before closing time, like the restaurant in Interspar.

CONVERSION TABLE

Try the conversion calculator on the web: www.convert-me.com, www.onlineconversion.com

Metric measure British and American measure

1 meter (m) 3.28 feet 39.37 inches 1.094 yards 1 km 0.62 miles 1 kilogram (kg) 2.205 pounds 35.27 ounces 1 liter (l) 33.824 fluid ounces 2.11 pints 1.057 quarts 0.26 gallons

Celsius Fahrenheit

0° C 32° F If it gets 1° Celsius warmer, the Fahrenheit temperature rises by 1.8° to 33.8° F If it gets 1° Celsius colder, The Fahrenheit temperature falls by 1.8° to 30.2° F.

33 34

35 Moving to a new culture is a learning experience

There is valuable learning that comes from experiencing and understanding a way of life different from your own. It may surprise you to discover that you will learn things about your own culture that you may not have thought about before. It is a rare opportunity not only to broaden your viewpoint but also to mature personally and to realize and establish your values. You will gain an understanding of Western ways, develop competence in German, appreciation of cultural differences and improve your ability to work and relate to people from a diverse range of backgrounds. All these add significant benefits to your future career as professional.

Some hints to help you adjust:

Examine your expectations If you find yourself confused or disappointed about something, ask yourself, “Why? What did I expect? Was my expectation reasonable?” If you find that your expectations were unreasonable, you can do a lot to reduce the dissatisfaction and unhappiness you are feeling. Try to become aware that your own ideas and stereotypes (generalizations) of Austrian culture. With this awareness, think again about people’s behavior from their point of view. Be willing to test, adapt and change your own stereotypes to fit your new experience.

Listen and observe You may be unfamiliar with the social rules in Austria, as well as differences in people’s attitudes and habits. You may not understand the social signs used by Austrians. Try to listen carefully to what people are saying and observe their body language closely. In other words, concentrate on both verbal and non-verbal communication techniques and try to put them into a total context. If some of those non-verbal signs are insulting your culture, don’t take it personally. For example smiling when you are introduced to someone may be a sign of respect in your culture; in Austria, if someone does not smile in this situation, it does not necessarily mean that he or she is not respectful.

Ask questions, seek clarification You may not always understand what people are trying to communicate or you may not understand the significance of what people do. Most Austrians will help you if you need an explanation. Don’t be afraid to ask.

Keep an open mind Austrians might say or do things that people at home would not do or say. Try to understand that they are acting according to their own set of rules. Remember that you may have misunderstood something because you did not have enough information. Try not to judge the way other people behave by the standards of your own country. Ask yourself if the behavior you are seeing makes sense within the Austrian culture, even if it seems strange or wrong to you. If you have a negative or bad experience don’t assume that all Austrians will behave in the same way.

36 Keep your sense of humor It is very likely that you will make mistakes as you explore a new culture. If you can laugh at some of these mistakes it will help you to learn. Austrians are more likely to help you if you show that you have a sense of humor.

Expect anxiety and frustration Learning to function in a new culture is not easy. Cross-cultural situations are often ambiguous and result in stress because you are not sure what others expect of you or what you can expect of them. In these situations it is natural to feel anxious and frustrated. If you recognize that these are a normal part of the experience you may be able to deal with them more effectively. Your sense of humor and openness will also help. As you gain greater understanding of the new culture you can expect the level of stress to diminish.

Become involved Remember, the more you put into the experience, the more you will learn from it. Try to make an effort to meet people, form friendships, get involved in the activities (eg. sports, music, cinema) and learn about others and their culture.

Talk to someone Talking to someone about what you are experiencing is usually helpful. Talking to other new arrivals may reassure you that you are not the only one with these thoughts and feelings. A discussion with an advisor at the International Office may also help you. Make sure the International Office always has your correct address, also email address.

Readjusting when you return home Almost all students who study in foreign countries experience some degree of culture shock in reverse when they return home after their studies. In the same way that you have to adjust for life in Austria, you will have to get used to living back home. Not only you have changed as a result of your experiences in Austria, but the people back home have also been changing in your absence.

Characteristics of Austrians

Individuality Many Austrians want to be treated as individuals rather than as representatives of a certain class, position or group. They dislike being too dependent on others.

Equality Austrians believe that people should have equal social, legal and political rights. Anti- discrimination laws try to prevent discrimination on the basis of race, gender, marital status, homosexuality, and physical and mental disabilities. Austrian women expect and are legally entitled to the same rights, status and opportunities as men. This may make them seem much more independent than women of some other countries. It is common for Austrian women to have responsible jobs and to continue working after they have married. Social relationships between men and women are usually very informal. Before they get married many people leave their parental home to live on their

37 own or with friends of either sex. Women have great freedom in the way they dress but this does not mean that they have loose morals.

Directness It is considered quite normal to discuss issues, events and ideas openly with other people. Don’t be offended when issues might be embarrassing to you, just say “I would rather not talk about that”.

Punctuality You are expected to be on time in Austria. When your appointment or invitation is at 10.30, then it is at 10.30, don’t keep people waiting without a very important reason. If you cannot keep an appointment, it is very important to inform the other person immediately. If you missed an appointment it is a must to apologize and/or explain.

Humor Austrians often say things in a humorous way. They like to make fun of people who think that they are better than anybody else. They also like to tease others, don’t be offended, it is just another way to show you that you are liked and accepted. If you feel offended tell them and explain why.

Politeness When Austrians enter a room or a shop or when they meet someone they know in the street they greet. They also use polite phrases a lot, like “I’ll call you some time”, or “Let’s meet some time”. Don’t take this too serious, it might be only a polite phrase. It is not common to address tutors, teachers or administrative staff at the University with their first names. Unless the respective person offers you to use the first name and to say “du”, you have to use the last name and “Sie”. Austrians also love titles (even though they joke a lot about it). So when you know that a person has an academic degree, use it until the person tells you to omit it.

Austrian German

You will notice at once that the German the Austrians speak is quite different to the German you may have learned at school. Austrians use regional informal dialects which are not always easy to understand, it is mainly a change of vowels. They also use different expressions for things which you will not find in a dictionary. So if you have problems with understanding ask people to talk slowly or to repeat and ask them to use “High-German”: “Bitte sprechen Sie Hochdeutsch”. Don’t use the dialect when you talk to superiors. The University offers German courses at beginner’s and intermediate level. Try to talk to your fellow students as much as possible and don’t stick to people from your home country.

Typical Austrian expressions: Servus, Servas or Grüß dich Guten Tag when you meet friends or fellow students Grüß Gott Guten Tag Pfiat di or Baba Auf Wiedersehen when you leave friends or fellow students Schmäh ein Witz Gaudi ein Spaß des is a Gaudi das ist lustig des is wurscht das ist egal, das macht nichts

38 Gemma Gehen wir Topfen Quark Möhren Karotten Karfiol Blumenkohl Kohlsprossen Rosenkohl Erdäpfel Kartoffeln ein Weckerl, eine Semmel ein Brötchen Schlagrahm, Schlagobers Schlagsahne, süße Sahne Sauerrahm saure Sahne Fritattensuppe Rindsuppe mit Pfannkuchen, soup with crepes -erl diminutive, German: –chen a ein a bisserl, a weng ein bisschen Depp ein dummer oder ignoranter Mensch Trottel ein dummer oder ignoranter Mensch bist deppert spinnst du? na geh, aber geh na so was; das gibt es nicht a Krügerl ein großes Glas Bier a Achterl 1/8 l Wein umi hinüber, gemma umi = gehen wir hinüber aufi hinauf obi hinunter

You will learn all this very fast by doing or rather by listening and experiencing. Just ask for an explanation.

Body language Every culture has certain ways of standing, moving, using hands, eyes, arms, nodding the head, etc. There may be meanings associated with these movements or gestures, and the meaning may be different in Austria from the meaning in your culture. In Austria it is usual to look someone in the eye when you are talking with them. Eye contact means directness, attentiveness and sincerity. Averting the eyes is considered to be impolite. In some cultures it is an insult if someone gives you something with the left hand – in Austria it makes no difference. Austrian people also touch others when they are talking to them but they don’t like it when you stand too close to them. It is also quite common to pat little children’s heads. After you have spoken to a number of Austrians you will soon notice these differences.

Social customs

Greetings People usually shake hands when they meet. “Guten Morgen”, “Mahlzeit” and “Guten Abend“ are formal greetings in the morning, at noon and in the evening. You can use “Grüß Gott” at any time, and when you leave say “Auf Wiedersehen”. Students and young people often just say “Hallo”, “Servus” or “Grüß dich”. The American “Hi” is also quite common. People also appreciate it if you add their name, eg. “Grüß Gott, Herr Moser”.

Social invitations

39 Austrians believe that invitations should be answered as soon as possible. On a written formal invitation “u.A.w.g.” means “um Antwort wird gebeten” (please reply) and you should do this as soon as you know whether you will accept the invitation or not. Sometimes a person who invites you to a restaurant will pay for the meal. However, since students are often short of money, an invitation often means, “We’d like you to come with us, but we’ll all be paying for ourselves.” If you are in doubt, offer to pay your share. If the other person intends to pay for you they will refuse your offer. You may receive an invitation and be asked to bring your own (“Jeder bringt was mit”). This means that groups are having a potluck dinner where everyone brings some food or drinks and shares with other people. A special dish from your country would be appreciated. If you are invited to a meal it is always polite to ask if you should bring something (“Soll ich etwas mitbringen?”). If your host declines, you may still like to bring a bunch of flowers, a box of chocolate or a small souvenir from your home country. Students who visit each other don’t bring anything.

Conversation You are expected to contribute to the conversation. Your host will understand that your German might not be so fluent. If they speak too fast, ask them to speak a little more slowly. Questions about a person’s age, how much someone earns, the cost of a persons house or the land on which the house is built, and the costs of various things in the home are considered to be impolite. If you would like to know the cost of something, ask the question in a non-personal way, eg.: “How much does the average house in Leoben cost?”

Smoking Smoking in public or on the street is socially not acceptable. In some public areas or workplaces smoking is prohibited. In some restaurants there are smoke free areas and areas for smokers. When there is an ashtray on your table then you are allowed to smoke. But always ask the people sitting at your table if they mind that you smoke. If you are visiting someone’s home you must ask whether you can smoke. Smoking is only allowed in certain areas of the University. In Austria the legal age for smoking and drinking is 16.

Saying thank you “Thank you” is a phrase which is often said in Austria. It is usual to say thank you for small favors done by people, even if they are just doing their job. Don’t forget to thank your host for an invitation.

The use of names Austrians usually have two or three names. The last name is their family name and the others are the given names. On all official documents it is important that you always use your name in the same order. Many international students underline their family name or write it in capital letters, so Austrians do not have difficulties in figuring out which is the family name.

Meals and table manners Austrians eat three meals a day: breakfast, dinner (usually a warm meal at noon) and supper. You are most likely to be invited to dinner or supper. Austrians eat with their fingers only at barbecues or picnics outside the home and they sit down for their meals. Just watch your

40 hosts what they are doing. If you have medical, dietary or religious reasons for not eating certain foods, you should explain this to your hosts when you accept an invitation.

Spitting is considered to be very rude, even on the streets. Do not use chewing gum when you meet or talk to others.

Servants If you are used to having servants to do most of your work, you may find the Austrian way of life a little difficult at first. In Austria it is not considered shameful to do manual work and parents and children often share in the housework. People sometimes employ a cleaner to clean the house but most Austrians do the housework or the gardening themselves.

Borrowing or lending When you borrow things from others it is expected that you return things undamaged as soon as possible. Don’t make the owner ask for them. If you damage things you must replace them or make up for the damage. The borrowing of money is not very popular in Austria, only do this in real cases of emergency and return the money as soon as possible. Be careful when you lend money and always ask the other person for a receipt and a statement when he will pay you back. It also helps to have his/her address.

Making friends and relationships

Relationships Sometimes it is not so easy to become good friends with Austrians. They smile a lot, they joke and are eager to talk, but this does not always mean that they want to be close friends. They may even be friendly without expecting a friendship to develop. Austrians enjoy their privacy and may not be comfortable with people coming to their homes uninvited.

Going out together (dating) Traditionally, men in Austria have been expected to take the initiative in establishing relationships with women. However, it is now acceptable for women to take a more assertive role in initiating relationships with men. Students often have informal ways of dating or going out together. Men and women who know each other well may meet spontaneously. Some women may call a man and ask him to go out with her or join in an activity. People often prefer to go out in groups rather than in pairs. In Austria young couples can go out together without a chaperone or someone accompanying them. It is not unusual for your companion to invite you into his or her place for a coffee or a drink at the end of the date. This does not imply anything and is not a sign of loose morals. Leoben is a very safe place, so don’t be surprised when you see young girls walking at home alone after cinema or a party in the evening.

Sexual involvement Most Austrians regard sexual involvement as a matter of personal choice concerning only the people in the relationship. A sexual relationship before marriage depends on the particular person’s attitude. It is quite common for two unmarried people to live together. It is also considered quite normal for a couple to show their affection in public (kissing, hugging only).

41 When an Austrian man or woman accepts a date, it does not mean they are committing themselves to sexual involvement. If there is sexual involvement it does not necessarily mean that emotional involvement will also occur. In Austria, the legal age of sexual consent is 14. Severe punishment can be imposed if you have sexual involvement with a “minor” under these ages.

Personal well-being

Food and nutrition When you come to Austria you will probably be confronted with a large range of new and unfamiliar foods. A sudden change from your familiar diet and food habits may not be a good idea. It is important to adjust gradually to the new food environment.

Dietary guidelines for sensible eating ¾ Enjoy a wide variety of nutritious foods. ¾ Eat plenty of breads and cereals (preferably wholegrain), vegetables and fruits. ¾ Eat diet low in fat, and in particular, low in saturated fat. ¾ Maintain a healthy body weight by balancing physical activity and food intake. ¾ If you drink alcohol, limit your intake. ¾ Eat only a moderate amount of sugars and foods and beverages containing added sugars. ¾ choose low salt foods and use salt sparingly. ¾ Eat foods containing calcium (eg. dairy products, broccoli, green beans, bananas). ¾ Eat foods containing iron (eg. green vegetables, red meat, soybeans). ¾ Winters are very cold in Austria, so eat foods and fruits containing lots of Vitamin C (lemons, oranges, tangerines, kiwi fruits) to avoid getting a cold or influenza.

Personal habits and hygiene In Austria it is against the law to swear or talk indecently, urinate, defecate or to be sexually indecent in public. If you need to clear your throat or nose, you should use a handkerchief or tissue. When using western style toilets you should sit. Do not squat on the seat (it might break) or stand upright, this might leave the bowl in a condition very offensive to the next user. Austrians use toilet paper after using the toilet and flush it. They also clean it if necessary. Paper towels should only be used for drying your hands and should not be placed in the toilet bowl because they could block the sewage system. Sanitary pads or tampons should also not be flushed down the toilet. Many public toilets provide a special sanitary disposal unit in which these can be placed. Alternatively, if there is no disposal unit, wrap the pad or tampon in toilet paper and place it in a bin.

Contraception The word contraception refers to protection against pregnancy during sexual intercourse. Many different methods of contraception for men and women are available in Austria. What is best for you – in case you need it – should be decided by you and your gynecologist or medical practitioner. Inform yourself about the side effects.

42 A condom is the only contraception which offers protection from sexually transmitted diseases when used properly! Remember, avoiding AIDS is your own responsibility.

Homosexuality In Austria, homosexuality is not increasing but becoming more visible and tolerated.

Discrimination

Discrimination is when someone treats you unfairly or harasses you because you belong to a certain group or people. Many people have prejudices against people who are different from themselves. The following types of discrimination are against the law in Austria: ¾ race discrimination (because of color, nationality, ethnic or national origin) ¾ sex discrimination ¾ marital status discrimination ¾ physical and intellectual impairment discrimination ¾ gay or lesbian discrimination ¾ religious belief or absence of belief

But these types of discrimination are only against the law if they happen in the following places or circumstances: ¾ employment – everything to do with work ¾ state education – everything to do with schools, colleges or universities ¾ goods and services – everything to do with buying goods and getting services ¾ accommodation – everything to do with renting, hotels, motels and commercial premises.

Racism Racist acts or actions which happen in public are also against the law. Unfortunately we cannot deny that racism still exists in Austria as in other countries.

Sexual harassment Sexual harassment is gender discrimination and against the equal treatment law. It includes: ¾ display of offensive or pornographic pictures and publications (also on PC) ¾ pornographic material ¾ unwanted and unnecessary acts such as staring, leering. pinching, patting, touching or kissing ¾ verbal abuse, sexual comments, offensive jokes, sexual innuendos, interrogation or remarks about a person’s alleged sexual behavior or activities, personal appearance or private life ¾ requests for sexual favors, particularly when it implies that work or study rights will be withheld or given in return ¾ offensive and indecent written or telephone communications (also SMS) ¾ indecent or sexual assault ¾ exhibitionist acts

If you want to make a complaint please contact the “Arbeitskreis für Gleichbehandlungsfragen” (Committee for Equal Treatment) at the University. Your enquiry

43 will be dealt with quickly and confidentially, there you can get information, get help or can just talk about the problem.

Police and the law In Austria there are state and federal police forces. Police have the duty to enforce law and to maintain order, to prevent and detect crime and to protect life and property. The Police Department is part of the Public Service and not part of the Austrian Defense Ministry. In certain situations the police have the right to arrest people and to take them to a Police Station.

Laws that may affect you are: ¾ traffic regulations: don’t drink anything when you drive a car or ride a bike, make sure you don’t break any traffic rules, hit-and-run driving is a crime, watch the traffic signs ¾ gambling: it is against the law to gamble outside official agencies ¾ bribery: it is a serious crime to bribe anyone, especially a policeman or government official, so don’t offer them money for any of their services. ¾ noise: it is against the law to make loud noise which may annoy your neighbors or other people between certain hours (eg. 10pm-7am or at noon), consider this when you are partying. Your neighbors can call the police ¾ alcohol: be careful and don’t consume it in public places

Your legal rights: ¾ Your most basic right is that you must be considered innocent until you are proven guilty in a court of law ¾ Unless you have been arrested, you do not need to answer police questions, you can ask for a lawyer or another person who you trust as assistance, but you must prove your identity and your residence permit or visa. Never insult or shout at a police officer! ¾ You have the right not to say anything that may incriminate you ¾ The police must not threaten or injure you (if you resist arrest they can use reasonable force), and you can refuse to go with the police unless they formally arrest you

Of course there are exemptions to all these rules, so avoid conflict with the police.

If you have been arrested ¾ you have the right to be given details of the charge ¾ you should be allowed to make a telephone call ¾ you have the right to ask for an interpreter or to contact a lawyer or a friend or relative ¾ you have the right to ask for bail ¾ if you want to make a statement you are entitled to write it yourself or to get an interpreter to do it for you

Accommodation

In most cases you will have to clean your apartment or room yourself and are also responsible for the proper disposal of your waste. You will have to obey the rules set up by

44 your landlord. It is also expected that you pay your rent in time. Some landlords do not allow pets. Respect the rights of your neighbors. Partying is fine but loud music or other noise, especially at night, will not be appreciated. If you share kitchen and bathroom with others you will have to leave them clean after you have used them, you can also expect this from others. You will also have to share the cleaning with others, take turns. Avoid leaving rotten food in the kitchen or the refrigerator, this attracts insects, vermin and bugs. Air the bathroom after taking a shower, especially in winter to avoid mold and black spots on the wall. Air your room at least twice a day, especially after cooking. Do not pour hot oil or grease in the toilet bowl or sink, they might break and it also pollutes the environment.

Waste Management in Austria

This is a very important chapter. Since Austria is very small and densely populated we separate our waste carefully and recycle it in order to assure a clean environment and good water quality. This is a legal requirement by the local councils and part of the environmental protection plan. You are also expected to do this. Austrians do not leave or dispose waste in public places. Plastics don’t break down or biodegrade. Try to use as little plastic as possible.

We distinguish between the following kinds of wastes, there are separate containers for them: ¾ paper – green container with red lid ¾ glass packing – metal container for colored and uncolored glass ¾ plastic packing – green box with yellow lid ¾ metal packing –container with blue lid ¾ organic or biodegradable waste – brown container ¾ residual waste – metal container ¾ batteries – red containers with very small openings

You can find some of the containers near or in the house where you live or in the vicinity. Ask your landlord where you have to put which kind of waste. And please collect all packaging material empty and cleaned! In the beginning this may be quite unusual for you but you will get used to it. To make things easier for you we have added a list where you can see which things go where.

Paper: Every kind of paper and cardboard, newspapers, magazines, folders, catalogues, notebooks, books, unsoiled household paper Not in: plastic or polythene coated paper

Glass packing: Please separate colored glass from uncolored glass Bottles and glasses for preserved food, beverages and medicines Not in: light bulbs, fluorescent tubes, energy saving lamps, mirrors, window glass, lead crystal glass, glassware, stoneware, porcelain (china), pottery

Plastic packing: Every kind of coated, plastic, wooden, textile, ceramic and polysterene (styrofoam) packing material, such as bottles, cups, foils, bags, vacuum packing, frozen-food-packing, blister packing Not in: plastic and polythene products such as toys, floor covering, pipes, flower pots, plastic buckets

Metal packing: Every kind of metal packing such as beverage cans, preserve cans, animal food cans, paint and varnish cans, metal tubes, metal lids, lid foils, screw caps Not in: tools, wires, nails, car body and motor parts, metal household articles

Organic waste: Vegetable and fruit waste, food leftovers, cut flowers, pot plants (without pot), coffee and tea grounds with the filter, eggshells, leaves, branches, grass Not in: Soups, sauces, oils, dressings, bones, vacuum cleaner bags, nappies, ashes, animal litter

Residual waste: all “not ins” mentioned before, all the rest Not in: building rubble, biological refuse, problematic substances, bulk rubbish, electric tools