Erasmus Experience in Berlin, Germany by Scott

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Why did you choose to go to Berlin, Germany?

Coming out of a Filmmaking course and looking for industry experience a friend of mine passed over details of a six month internship based in Berlin working for a independent film production group.

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

The internship is six months and I receive approximately 2, 400 euros.

What is the student lifestyle like in Berlin?

Berlin is one of the hottest places to live in Europe currently, brimming with people from across the globe. There are two ways to get out and meet people; either just heading out to bars, clubs, libraries, cinemas, etc. or if you search for groups on Facebook or the site Meetup there are plenty of events being organised for people to get together.

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

Can't say anything regarding the University as I'm working however I would highly recommend Berlin as a whole. The city is so massive and diverse you'll discover so much about the world (never mind Germany) and most likely something about yourself.

What is the food like?

I'm a picky eater living with a cook who is slowly introducing me to new foods, but honestly you'll find whatever you're into. German, Chinese, Italian, Turkish, McDonalds, KFC, etc

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Berlin?

If you want to find a place in Berlin and the University isn't guaranteeing a place, start your search immediately. I tried all sites recommended and used the Erasmus site and people just don't seem to reply to me. I almost got scammed also through a catfish, always ask for a Skype call or a Facebook account from the seller to prove they actually exist. It wasn't until a friend of a friend of a friend.. honestly don't know how it made it to this guy, but essentially I had to reach out to people to get a place.

How much does it cost to live in Berlin?

I'm a 15 minute tram ride to Alexanderplatz, in an ideal location with a multitude of shops and restaurants nearby costing me 270 euros a month. Usually it'll cost more. When I was searching for places I didn't even look at places cheaper than 400 as they didn't seem comfortable but I'm honestly delighted with my shared apartment.

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

I'm hopeless with languages, however the best way to learn is through immersing yourself. My roommate, boss and interactions with the average Berliner have been increasing my verbal skills. Truth is, most German's speak flawless English, more so in the tourist areas, but as a Scot I had to learn to slow down my speech.

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

I got a plane from Glasgow.

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

Dependents what you're into. There is an abundance of bars and clubs in Berlin, only think I'd recommend is researching where you want to go. I wanted to go to a club called House of Weekend in Alexanderplatz due to it's closeness to me but reading into it I discovered they have a history of not letting single men or non-Germans (both nationally and non-whites) in but I showed up early and they let me in anyway. Better to be prepared just in case.

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

There's a place for everyone, you just have to get out there and discover for yourself.

Personally, I love a local pizza place called "Fellini Pizza" located in Langhansstraße 151-152, 13086 Berlin.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

History is around every corner of Berlin, you need to just get out there and explore. The tourist areas are a good place to start.

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

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Make sure you buy a ticket for trams as you can get landed a 60 euro find on the spot. The ticket men dress casually and hide their ticket readers as they are hired privately.