Erasmus Experience in Berlin, Germany by Simon

Why did you choose to go to Berlin, Germany?

I was in Berlin for a city trip two years before my Erasmus-semester. The moment my university proposed me to study in Germany, it was an easy decision for me to choose for Berlin.

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

I received approx. 300 EUR/month during 6 months.

What is the student lifestyle like in Berlin?

I studied at the Technical University of Applied Sciences Wildau, a suburb of Berlin (30 min by S-Bahn from Neukölln, 25min by regional train to Alexanderplatz). Wildau is a rather residential city, with its university as main attraction pole. The university is very international: approximately 20% of all students come from abroad. This makes it easier to get in touch with other cultures and students. Lectures have to be taken seriously, but there is also plenty of time to celebrate and enjoy the life abroad.

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

Yes, I would. Wildau has an excellent reputation and a great community. Berlin is simply a great place to live; life is cheap in comparison to other capital cities of EU countries. Germany has a rich culture and Berlin is so international that it is easy get in touch with others.

What is the food like?

In Berlin, go for a Currywurst or a Döner. You can find them all around the city - usually for reasonable prices and decent quality. There are plenty different types of restaurants in the city - and it is fairly easy to find restaurants offering good food for cheap prices.

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Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Berlin?

My accommodation was arranged by Studentenwerk Potsdam. Before coming to Berlin, it took me 30 min to fill out an online application form, and then my university did the rest. Once I arrived, the key of my flat was given to the International Office of the university, and I only had to go to Potsdam once to sign my rental contract (the meeting in Potsdam was organized by the university, too).

How much does it cost to live in Berlin?

About 700 EUR per month.

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

There are plenty of language courses available in the university. By attending lectures 'German for foreign students' weekly, my German went from CEFR level B1 to B2 in just 6 months.

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

I'd suggest flying with EasyJet (Brussels International Airport to Berlin Schönefeld Airport).

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

Week-end is a must. Soda is great fun during Friday night if there are a number of girls in the group (they can enter for free and even get free drinks).

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

Like I said before, try a Currywurst or Döner. Que Pasa (Oranienburgerstraße) serves great Mexican food for the price. And their cocktails are great, too!

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

I liked Park Sanssouci in Potsdam. The Tempelhofer Feld (a parc located on the runway of the now closed Tempelhof Airport) is also great fun. When in Berlin, you should definitely visit the DDR-Museum and the Zoo.

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

Just enjoy your time! Don't be afraid to ask for help - even if you don't speak perfect German. My time in Berlin is the best part of my life so far!