My Erasmus experience in Bologna - Helena's story

Why did you choose to go to Bologna, Italy?

If I am going to be honest, it wasn't my first choice. When I arrived there I didn't like it at all however, as time went on, the city and its people, made me change my mind.

How long does the exchange period last for? How much bursary money did you receive?

The year abroad lasts a maximum of 6 months and because I went to Italy, I received 250 Euros a month.

What is the student life like in Bologna?

It is full of people of different nationalities and there are a lot of Spanish people. I didn't only meet Spanish people because I also wanted to get to know people from other cultures. I highly recommend making international friends. Although at first it might seem more daunting, in the end, they will take your year abroad experience to another level.

Would you recommend Bologna and its university to other students?

I would 100% recommend it. The city has so much to offer and the party never stops. The university itself is one of the best in the country but rest assured, that it's even better being an Erasmus student.

How is the food in Italy?

I am going to tell you things about the Italian cuisine that you don't already know. There are so many places to try and I am sure that they will all leave you satisfied.

How difficult was it to find accommodation in Bologna?

It was very difficult. I would recommend you start looking at accommodation around 1 year or at least 6 months before you are supposed to go. It is so complicated trying to find a suitable accomodation especially finding one with a "single" or "individual" bedroom and that isn't really expensive. Good luck with that.

How much does it cost to live in Bologna?

It costs around 400-500 euros to rent a bedroom of your own however, a shared bedroom costs around 300 euros or sometimes even less. The preference depends on the individual.

How did you find the language? Did you do a language course whilst at the university?

The language itself is really easy to pick up being Spanish myself. I went there without knowing anything and after my first week, I could understand everything and could communicate with a few phrases that I had learned. As time goes by, you get more and more comfortable, however, I was very lucky that four of my flatmates were Italian so they always helped me.

What is the cheapest way of getting to Bologna from your city?

It is best to fly there. I bought the plane ticket two weeks before I left and it cost me 15 Euros. Of course, it will cost you a little bit more as you will have to add on your suitcases.

Where would you recommend are the best places to go out clubbing?

My favourite clubs are Qubo (reggaeton music), Labas (techno) and Empire is a bar but at night it becomes a nightclub. When you arrive in Bologna, you need to get your ESN card straight away and you will get entry into the best student parties.

Where would you recommend to go out and eat in Bologna?

Pizza casa, da Michele

What about the culture in Bologna? Is there a lot to see?

The two towers, Neptune's fountain, San Michele in Bosco, San Luca

Is there any advice that you would give to students going to Bologna in the future?

Go with an open mind and do not seclude yourself from people. Meet people from not only Italy but also from around the world too.