Lola's Erasmus Experience in Berlin, Germany

Why did you choose to go to Berlin?

The city is quite different from the cities that you find in Spain, and I think that it is a good idea to get to know a different environment. At the end of the day, I come from a city in the south of Spain and when you come to a European capital like Berlin... it's really impressive.

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How long was your scholarship? How much money did you receive for support?

Like all the Spaniards that come from a public university, I got the Erasmus+ scholarship which usually lasts 7-8 months and you usually receive about 250 euros a month as financial support.

Although, it depends in which Spanish autonomous region you live, as you could receive additional support.

What's the student lifestyle like in Berlin?

At first glance, Berlin looks like a city with a small student atmosphere. Although, wherever you go you will find young people.

One of the great things about Berlin is that you can be in the centre, on the S-bahn (the train), or in a bar having a beer and if the person next to you is Spanish, they will start talking to you as if you have known each other forever.

Would you recommend the city and the university to other students?

The city is a magical place and you will easily come to love it; for both its sculptures and its history.

The university is very different to those we are used to in Spain. Here, you won't see students spending hours and hours in the library studying. The classes are much more practical, at least in the ASH where you can study social work.

I guarantee that you will not get bored in the classes here.

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What’s the country’s food like? What are your favourite dishes?

The food that you can find in Germany is very different to what we have in Spain.

The most famous food from the city is the well-known currywurst, which in other words, is sausages with curry and potatoes.

Some advice: if they ask you whether you want curry, I'm just pre-warning you, it is VERY spicy.

Another typical food in Berlin is Codillo. And without a doubt, the best is in Augustiner in Gendamnenmark.

Was it difficult to find accommodation in Berlin? Do you have any advice?

If you are looking for accommodation on your own in Berlin it can be quite difficult to find.

However, you will have the help of the Studentenden Werk (student residence). These are usually provided by the university that you are attending.

In any case, you can apply for them through their official website: "Studentenden Werk Berlin".

How much does it cost to live in Berlin?

If you decide to live in student accommodation like in my case, it will cost around 250 euros a month.

There is a huge variety of shared flats and individual rooms with a kitchen and private bathroom.

How's the language? Did you go on a course at the university?

The language is complicated, at least for me as I had never learnt German before. But the university provides courses to learn the language and they're really useful.

What's the cheapest way for you to get to Berlin from your hometown?

Flying, I usually go with the faithful Ryanair hahaha.

Where do you recommend for nightlife in Berlin?

There are lots of great places to go out in Berlin, and you'll see them advertised all over the city. For example, there's Tresoe, Kitkat, Berghain etc.

The aforementioned places are great if you like techno music, but if that's not for you, there is House of Weekend in the centre of Berlin, and Habanna and Soda where you can find a wide variety of music between the different rooms inside the clubs.

You will also find the typical bars where you can have a beer, like in Clash, which is my favourite bar without a doubt.

What about eating out in Berlin? What are your favourite places?

Mustafa's undoubtedly, it's the best kebab shop in the city. Also, Burgermaister where you can enjoy the best hamburgers in the city and at a cheap price too!

Don't be fooled by the appearance of these two places and don't be put off by the long queues, the food is definitely worth the wait!

Do you have any advice for future students in Berlin?

Do everything you can as it is a unique experience.

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