Erasmus Experience in Berlin, Germany by Bockarie Sama

Why did you choose to go to Berlin, Germany?

I actually chose Berlin owing to its cosmopolitan nature with respect for diverse cultures. And because of the emerging start up scenes as i had interest in studying Entrepreneurship

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

I am not on any form of scholarship. I pay 780 Euros per month

What is the student lifestyle like in Berlin?

It is an amazing experience and i have no regrets choosing Berlin as a destination for my studies its a truly international city with loads of foreign students. For instance in my class of 15 we have only 3 Germans.

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

Yes i will do it over and over again. Berlin is indeed a student friendly city and one that offers the kind of environment for learning and connecting with new people

What is the food like?

The food is ok especially Dönner and there are lots of foreign restaurants all over the place from African to Asian to Turkish. For instance i had the best lunch at OM Restaurant, Belview (U), a Nepalese restaurant. That is by far my best experience since i arrive over 2 months ago.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Berlin?

Well because i actually came with my family i found it a bit difficult to get an apartment with all the bureaucracy attached to it. And at the end of the day i was squeezed to pay extra 3 months Kaution as a guaranty. But the experience isn't the same with my colleague students as sharing economy is booming in the city so its pretty easy to find a co-sharing apartment

How much does it cost to live in Berlin?

For an individual it may actually cost as low as 800 euros

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

The language isn't easy but there are lots of languages schools and apps around

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

By air

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

I have only been to Alexander platz at night. Not explored the city yet

And for eating? Can you recommend some good restaurants in Berlin?

Mensa cards are available in all universities at discount prices. But there are nice restaurants all over the place

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Berlin Wall and war memorial

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

If you aren't a smoker and hate smoking then that might be a challenge as people smoke indiscriminately all over the city. That is one thing i hate about Berlin