Experience in Aberystwyth, United Kingdom by Ane

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

I study Political Sciences and in the third year of our degree we have to "specialise" in a specified branch of studies. I chose International Relations. At the beginning I wasn't sure that I would do a year in the UK (in the UPV the two places that they had were for 9 months for two people), because of the language, the culture shock that I might experience, etc. But my course co-ordinator convinced me, so I went to the department of RRII in Aberystwyth, which is one of the best in Europe. So I said to myself, why not? Also, the UK is the best option for improving your English, obviously.

Source

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

My stay abroad was for the first 7 months, and every month they gave me 700 euros, per month! In total, I received 2100 euros There are also always grants from banks, other entities like those, the Basque Government in my case. Nevertheless, it wasn't insufficient.

What is the student lifestyle like in Aberystwyth?

It's ideal! You could say that it's like a mini Welsh Salamanca. Nearly everything is directed towards students and the other people that live there love each one of us.

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

Completely. Personally, I couldn't have chosen a better destination. Aber could seem small, but there are thousands of activities, societes... etc. within arms reach. So, if you get bored, it's because you want to. And the university is incomparable with mine, which is UPV.

Source

What is the food like there?

Well, as I live in halls of residence with an oven, I don't often each much English food. I cook what I know. What I can see is that here they eat soooooo much meat, peas, potatoes, fish and chips... They don't even have fish.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Aberystwyth?

Not at all. I live in a halls of residence and the university made it very easy. Being in a town of students, you can find offers for shared flats all over the place.

How much does it cost to live in Aberystwyth?

It's more expensive than in Spain, but it's not that bad.

Is the language easy to get to grips with?

Are there language courses available at the University?

In the first week, I really struggled with the English language because they speak so quickly, and the truth is that I hadn't spoken English in a while. But you'll get it.

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

Economic, I don't know... The least complicated could be from Vitoria-Madrid by bus, and then Madrid-Birmingham, and from Birmingham, you then catch a train to Aber.

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

The classics are always Harleys, Academy, Yokos (Why Not), Pier... Bar46 is good too, Rummers, Scholars, Cambrian, there are loooooads.

Source

Is it good to eat out in Aberyswyth? What are some of your favourite places to go?

The truth is that we don't often eat out, but the fish and chips are very good. After that I would say Wetherspoons. For brunch, Sophie's is ideal, Harry's... etc. Afterwards, if vegetarian food interests you, and organic vegan food, the Crimson Rhino is GREAT!

And what about cultural visits?

The town in itself, the seafront, Constitution Hill, the castle ruins, the port, walking towards Borth, Penglais Woods... etc.

Is there any other advice that you could give to students going to Aberystwyth in the future?

Don't think twice about it. It can be really scary to come here at the beginning, as it seems like a lost Welsh village, but in my opinion, it's the best destination that you could choose.