Erasmus Experience in Aberystwyth, United Kingdom by Almudena

Why did you choose to go to Aberystwyth, United Kingdom?

Well, frankly, it was the only place that my university offered me and because I wanted to improve my English, off I went to Wales! Even so, I didn't regret my decision to go there one bit. It's an enchanting place, the people there are inviting and friendly. If you are someone accustomed to a big city, at the beginning it might be a bit difficult for you to acclimatise to the fact that Wales has more sheep than people (if I remember correctly, there are 3 times more sheep than people! ). You will breath in some of the purest air you'll ever find and live next to the beach... you can't put a price on that.

Source

How long is the scholarship? How much do you receive to help you with living costs?

In my case, the scholarship was for a total of 6 months but it's often cut short. This is due to the first semester, which is when I was there, with leaving for the Christmas holidays. This means the stay usually lasts for approximately 5 months, which flies by!

In terms of money, you have to bear in mind that the quantity does vary between the autonomous communities that you come from in Spain, but the largest grants for living costs per month could be up to €2, 400.

What's the student lifestyle like in Aberystwyth?

Aberystwyth is basically a town of university students and summer tourism. The study spaces, which include libraries, study rooms, specific departments; are of a high and pleasant standard. There's always something to do in Aber! What caught my attention most when I arrived were the "societies", which are student societies for almost anything you could imagine. Being part of the Erasmus program means you are already a part of the Erasmus and European Languages Society. They host a number of events, parties, movie nights... This is a great way to meet other Erasmus students that are in the same situation as you.

Source

Would you recommend the University of Aberystwyth to other students?

I would 100% recommend it, without a doubt! In the rankings, the University of Aber is up there with the best in the country. It's recognised thanks to the lecturers who are passionate about what they do, always free to offer a helping hand and the atmosphere is great.

What's the food like in Aberyswyth?

Everyone knows that the United Kingdom is famous, but not for its food. Although, I have to say the fish and chips are very tasty. If you come to Aberyswyth, you cannot leave without having been to Sophie's. For me, it's the best cafe in the area and their breakfasts are incredible. My friends and I love to go there for brunch.

Source

Was it difficult to find your accommodation in Aberystwyth?

Not at all, the university makes sure you have a room in its halls of residence and the price is very low-cost. I would personally recommend that you live in halls instead of a shared flat.

How much does it cost to live in Aberystwyth?

Although the quality of life in the United Kingdom is higher than in Spain, Aberystwyth is quite cheap compared with other areas of the country, or at least that's what people from London say.

How did you find the language? Did you enroll yourself in any University course?

Although they consider themselves a bilingual city (with Welsh and English its two official languages), everyone speaks English. I never heard anyone speak Welsh, even though all the signs and information were written in both languages.

What's the cheapest way of getting to Aberystwyth from your home town?

Transport is one of the few things I don't like about Aber. To get there from Spain, the cheapest and fastest way is to fly to Birmingham, and from there take the train to Aberystwyth (3 hours by train approx. ).

Wales doesn't have very good motorway links, so in this case I would disregard the option of taking the bus if you're easily travel sick.

Where would you recommend to go on a night out in Aberystwyth?

Our nights out would always take place in 3 local spots: Academy, Harleys, Why Not (more popularly known as Yoko's) and one last stop for some friend chicken, in a place called Lip Likking, in Aber itself.

Is it good to eat out in Aberystwyth? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

There are loads of options about where to eat in Aber. For breakfast, I would personally stick to Sophie's. If you want to eat like a king and for not a lot of money, the Wetherspoons in the train stations does some very tasty dishes. Harry's is also a great option.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

The seaside promenade is amazing, a long time ago (although I think it might be a lie, because when I was there it rained a lot) it was a spot where you could spend hours and hours sitting on a bench. No matter what, you can always climb the Constitution Hill, and from there you can see the best views in Aber. In Aberystwyth you can also find the national library of Wales, it has a copy of everything that has ever been published in the United Kingdom.

Source

What advice would you give to future students heading to Aberystwyth?

If you're thinking about coming to Aberystwyth, think no further! It's a place that's definitely worth a stay.