About us

Who we are and what we do.

At ESN FHWien der WKW, we are deeply committed to enriching the exchange experience for both international and local students at FH Wien. Our work, driven by a passionate team of 15 volunteers, is centered on facilitating cultural exchange, fostering friendships, and ensuring that students make the most of their time in Vienna.

Key Contributions

  • Buddy Program: A cornerstone of our activities, the Buddy Program pairs international students with local peers, offering a direct link to the local student life and culture. This initiative not only helps international students settle in, but also promotes intercultural understanding and friendships that often last a lifetime.
  • Welcome Weeks: The first steps in a new country can be daunting. Our Welcome Weeks serve as an essential ice-breaker, offering a series of activities and events designed to help international students get to know Vienna, meet fellow students, and start their semester abroad with confidence and a sense of community.
  • Diverse Activities: Beyond the initial welcome, we organize a wide range of events throughout the semester, from parties and social gatherings to museum tours, aiming to cater to diverse interests and ensure a well-rounded exchange experience.
  • Exciting Trips: Our day and weekend trips to destinations like Hallstatt, Graz, and even Croatia, provide students with unique opportunities to explore the beauty of Austria and beyond, creating unforgettable memories.

Partnerships

As a non-profit student organization, the invaluable support from our institutional and commercial partners is crucial. Our team of dedicated volunteers, who contribute their time and efforts without any financial compensation, are the heart of ESN. This dedication underscores the value and honesty of our work, making our activities truly remarkable. 

Support Through Partnerships: The collaboration with our partners allows us to offer these activities often at a discounted rate or with added benefits, thanks to the ESNcard. Such partnerships ensure a richer, more accessible experience for all students involved, highlighting the significant impact of volunteer-driven initiatives.

Communication Channels

Communication is key to our mission, and we leverage a variety of channels to keep our community well-informed, engaged, and connected. In addition to our official website and Instagram accounts (@esn_fhwien, @esn.vienna), we actively use WhatsApp communities. These groups allow for real-time interaction and provide a direct line of support and information sharing among students. This multifaceted approach to communication ensures that every member of our community, regardless of their preferred platform, has access to the latest news, events, and support networks, further enhancing the ESN experience for everyone involved.

The work of ESN FHWien der WKW transcends mere event organization; it’s about building a supportive, vibrant international community within FH Wien. Our efforts help international students navigate their exchange with ease, foster a welcoming environment, and offer local students the chance to engage with cultures from around the globe. This mutual exchange of ideas, customs, and friendships not only enhances the personal and academic growth of each student but also contributes to the global-mindedness of the FH Wien community as a whole.