Andjela Vlahovic was awarded a scholarship of the Scholarship Foundation of the Republic of Austria in 2019. Students meeting the criteria of the Scholarship Foundation can apply to pursue research on their final thesis.
Andjela Vlahovic applied to pursue research on her master’s thesis. In April 2021 she received the Annual Award of the Central Bank of Montenegro in the category of best master’s thesis with the title “Ranging factors determining the level of acceptability and the use of Internet banking services – Comparison of European advanced economies and countries in transition”. https://www.cbcg.me/en/public-relations/news/press-releases/cbcg-awarded-annual-awards-for-2021?id=1855 In the following article she talks about her research stay and the opportunities of studying in Austria. “I was very honoured and overjoyed after having been notified about receiving the Scholarship of the Scholarship Foundation of the Republic of Austria provided by the Austrian Agency for International Cooperation in Education and Research. My journey to Vienna took place on March 1st, 2019. My first contact with Austria was made on March 1st, 2017 when I received a scholarship for my bachelor’s studies, also thanks to the OeAD. Only 2 years later and on the same day I found myself at the same places – the city of Vienna and the Vienna University of Economics and Business. This scholarship had an enormous impact not only on my personal growth but also on my professional development. During my 4-month research stay at the WU I got an opportunity to learn a new scientific software, had access to the latest literature and all facilities. It provided me a great opportunity to learn, develop and make progress. I also got the chance to present results of my research to PhD students from the WU and participate in discussions with them. I enjoyed being surrounded by books, international teachers and students, Vienna’s cultural and historical heritage as well as beautiful and breathtaking natural surroundings. Marcus Tullius Cicero said “A room without books is like a body without a soul” so that I decided to enjoy every moment spent in the WU library. Apart from that, exploring the city on foot was my favourite pastime. I am sincerely grateful to the OeAD team for this scholarship, the opportunity for finding out about life in another city and spreading my knowledge out of the comfort zone as well as for the constant support during my stay in Vienna. I am also extremely thankful to my supervisor for everything I have learnt and am still learning from him, for his support and a pleasant and enjoyable time at WU. If I was asked to make a conclusion about my experience during this stay in Vienna briefly, I would make it as follows: I come from Montenegro, but Austria will always be my second home. In my opinion, a person's wealth is measured not by the amount of money they own, but by the amount of knowledge and friends they have. This stay in Vienna helped me to become a richer person." We would like to share the success stories of our scholarship holders. Contributions should be sent to alumni@oead.at.