April 2nd, 2025, marked the beginning of the PAC students’ Austrian term. They were warmly welcomed by the Dean of Internationalization and Engagement at the JKU Business School, Sandra Stötzer, before hearing insights from Prof. Dr. Robert Breitenecker, the Global Business Studies (GBS) Program Director, and Edit Juhász, the GBS Program Manager.
After familiarizing themselves with their upcoming schedule and learning interesting facts about Linz and Austria through an immersive game, the students, accompanied by the program’s student assistants, set off on a campus tour. They explored several key facilities, including the newly opened House of Schools 1, where most of their classes are held. Along the way, the students also discovered various indoor and outdoor learning spots and found out where to get the best coffee on campus. The highlight of the tour was the visit to the TNF tower, where the cohort enjoyed a panoramic 360-degree view of the entire campus and the city of Linz. To conclude the tour, the group enjoyed lunch at the cafeteria – a chance to both recharge and reflect on their first day at JKU.
The following day, the PAC students explored Linz in a guided city tour led by Susanne Kropf. Over the course of an hour and half, she introduced them to Linz’s rich history and vibrant culture, taking them through the charming Old Town and its famous landmarks, including the Mariendom, the Herrengasse and the Mozarthaus. The tour concluded with a visit to the Schlossmuseum, where the group enjoyed panoramic views of the Danube and the city below.
With their first impressions of both the campus and the city now in place, the PAC students are excited to dive into the weeks ahead. Energized by a warm welcome and inspired by their surroundings, they are ready to make the most of their time in Linz—both inside and outside the classroom
Written by student assistants Chiara Paprotny and Leah Rugh
