Erasmus Experience in Birmingham, the United Kingdom by Fernando

Why did you choose to go to Birmingham, the United Kingdom?

I chose this city for my degree in Translation and Interpretation, as well as for being the second biggest city in England.

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How long is the scholarship for? How much money do you receive as aid?

6 months. The ministry grant, plus the general grant.

How is student life in Birmingham?

It's a very lively city and there are always lots of events on offer. Its geographical location is perfect to travel around England too as it's in the middle of the island.

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

Yes.

How is the country's food?

This is England. They don't have carbonara pizza and they put mustard on ham and cheese sandwiches. End of.

Did you find it hard to find accommodation in Birmingham?

It took a while to find accommodation because the people who let flats out to students usually look for annual tenants, not ones for half a year as was my case. Searching for it from another country made it a bit more complicated. Even so, the university offers the alumni a database with people renting out flats and houses.

How are living costs in Birmingham?

The monthly bus pass is 57 pounds. There is a wide variety of supermarkets (Asda, Tesco, etc. ) for grocery shopping. I shopped at Lidl and normally spent 15-20 pounds for a weekly shop. Then, it's usually around 10 pounds to go out.

How is the language? Did you go to any language courses at the university?

The university offers a wide range of language courses and a tandem system amongst students.

Which places would you recommend to go out to party in Birmingham?

The party is usually concentrated in two points. Broad Street (a street full of clubs and pubs) and the Arcadian, an enclosure with a variety of bars of the same style.

And to eat in Birmingham? Can you name your favourite places?

The Balti is the most 'traditional' food from here. A mix of Indian food with England specialities. The canal restaurants also stand out.

The Balti

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And as a cultural visit?

In terms of tourism, the city doesn't have a lot. You can see everything worthy of seeing in two days: the Bullring, the new library, New Street, Custard Factory, the lake... All very interesting places but you can see them in 2 days. As a curiosity, you can also find the country's oldest cinema.

El Bullring

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Any advice you want to give to future students in Birmingham?

Go discover the city for yourselves. It's not a beautiful city, nor does it have great monuments but it does have a lot of life and is perfect for young people.