Erasmus Experience in Aberystwyth, United Kingdom by Katerina

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

We didn't have many British Universities to choose from at my Faculty and it was a big competition. I didn't know much about Aberyshwyth before I applied.

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

I went there in 2009-2010 and I received from Erasmus around 550 euro, which covered my rent and a bit of other thing, but wasn't definitely enough for everything.

What is the student lifestyle like in Aberystwyth?

It is a small place, it is truly the campus town with around 10 000 inhabitants and 5000 students. So it means everything is for students, you have student discounts everywhere, great infrastructure, you soon know so many people that everywhere you go, you meet someone. But it is still pretty small and it may be annoying or boring after some time.

Would you recommend the city and the University of Aberystwyth to other students?

I would recommend Aberyswyth to other student, but you should considere wisely what do you expect. There is not so many cultural events, sights, museums or that kind of stuff. On the other hand there are plenty of pubs and bars and if you're looking for more friendly, kind of family place, it may be just your thing. Also there is a beautiful nature all around and so easy just get a bike and explore it for yourself.

What is the food like?

It is Britain and the food is British. Don't expect nothing very impresive, just what would you get anywhere else in Britain. There is a student cafeteria, with reasonable prices, there are all those fast food and fish and chips places, at the end I must say the best was always the Indian food.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Aberystwyth?

Yeah, it was very difficult. I didn't get the dorms, there were just so many students coming. It was almost impossible to find something from abroad. It is possible once you are in the city, but prices were high and still it took some time. Small town, many students... understandable, be prepared.

Is the language easy to get to grips with? Are there language courses available at the University?

So far I know, there wasn't any english course for Erasmus or foreign students, but it may have changed. It is english, welsh accent may be strong, but still not that difficult to get.

What's the easiest or most economical way to travel to Aberystwyth from your city?

The best is to fly to Birmingham and from there it goes straight train to Aberyswyth. You can buy tickets online, which is btw much cheaper then buying them there. You can also easily travel to Birmingham from London by train, it takes something like 1,5 hour from London and then 3,5 hour to Aberyswyth from Birmingham (so far I remember)

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

Small town, not so hard to get around. Soon you'll know all the options, I promise.