Born and raised in the Philippines, educated in the United States, and now pursuing my studies in South Korea, I have always valued interdisciplinary learning and cross-cultural experiences. This winter, I had the privilege of participating in the winter school at the University of Vienna, an intellectually stimulating and deeply enriching experience that left a lasting impression on me.

History shaping our understanding of the present

One of the most profound takeaways from this program was the indispensable role of history in shaping our understanding of the present. Too often, history is overlooked or treated as a passive record of the past, yet it is fundamental to all fields of study. Through this program, I came to appreciate history not just as a collection of events but as a dynamic force that continues to influence contemporary thought, society, and culture.

The courses I took - ranging from design and performing arts to media in modern Vienna, and psychoanalysis in Sigmund Freud’s Vienna - were all deeply interconnected. Whether in the classroom, during film lectures, or on excursions to Vienna’s most significant historical sites, I found that every aspect of the program reinforced a central theme: history is not simply something that has happened; it is something that continues to unfold and shape our understanding of the world. The way these disciplines intertwined throughout the program underscored the importance of contextualizing knowledge within a historical framework.

Intellectual and cultural exchange

Beyond academic enrichment, the winter school provided a unique opportunity for intellectual exchange and cultural engagement. It challenged me to rethink not only my field of study but also the ways in which others perceive and value their own histories and identities. Vienna itself - vibrant, emotive, and intellectually rich - served as the perfect backdrop for this exploration. The discussions among students, each bringing their own perspectives and insights, were a testament to the power of shared learning and self-reflection.

This experience would not have been as impactful without the dedication of the Sommerhochschule team, the professors, and my fellow participants, all of whom contributed to making this journey extraordinary. Their passion and intellectual curiosity created an environment where learning extended beyond the classroom, fostering a deeper appreciation for knowledge, history, and human connection.

The winter school has left me with a renewed perspective on my studies, a greater appreciation for historical inquiry, and an enduring sense of intellectual curiosity. It was an experience that reaffirmed the importance of learning, appreciating, and valuing history - not as a relic of the past, but as a lens through which we understand the present and shape the future.

Kim Suna, Republic of Korea, 2025