Erasmus Experience in Amsterdam, Netherlands by Jessica

Why did you choose to go to Amsterdam, Netherlands?

I studied at the Royal Tropical Institute (Amsterdam) for 3 and a half months, as this was where the course I wanted to do took place.

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

I received a one-year scholarship. The scholarship provided me with 500 euros per month to live on. I rented a room that was in a family house, which cost 300 euros per month. So the scholarship was just enough for me to live on during my stay.

What is the student lifestyle like in Amsterdam?

My masters semester in Amsterdam took place in one of the more specialised university departments, with many older students: public health practitioners and doctors. So the lifestyle was not quite as student-like as during my bachelor's degree. However, Amsterdam is a great place for students. There are plenty of things to see and do, great nightlife and it's great fun exploring the city and beautiful canals.

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

I would definitely recommend Amsterdam as a city for students! it was a great 3 months there, I loved the atmosphere and the people :)

What is the food like?

The food is ok, of course, there is a great variety of choice in the supermarkets and many restaurants offering different cuisine.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Amsterdam?

No. The teaching institution helped me to find a private place.

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How much does it cost to live in Amsterdam?

My budget of 500 euros allowed me to live an ok student lifestyle (that was 300 euros for rent, and 200 euros for food, going out etc). I bought a cheap bike for my stay there, and that saved me a lot of money for paying for transport.

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

The Dutch language is not the easiest! I was not offered any language courses through the Tropical Institute, but learnt a few words and phrases from my new dutch friends!

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

From Copenhagen, flying is easiest and can be pretty cheap if booked in advance. However, the train is very cheap!

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

There are so many different 'squares' in Amsterdam with plenty of bars and nightclubs.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

In Amsterdam city centre, there are many historic buildings and museums to visit. A good idea when you first get there is to take a boat trip around the larger canals, and get to know the city a little better...

There is, of course, Anne Frank's House to visit, which is a must!

Many museums, from the art and history museums to sex museums, to cheese museums!

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

Buy a cheap bike and explore the city at the weekends... it's a great place! :)

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