Erasmus Experience in Bordeaux, France by Ioana

Why did you choose to go to Bordeaux, France?

It was one of the two main choices I wanted , because I am an English French student. So I decided to go to France and study English.

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

The scholarship is for 5 months, with 500 euros a month. They gave us 80% of the total, around 1600. But the dorm room is 250 a months, so I was left with 350 euros for 5 months' food.

What is the student lifestyle like in Bordeaux?

Student lifestyle? Well, they are definitely open-minded and put real stress on who you really are. Other nationality students are really talkative and fun to go out with, but native French tend to be reserved and avoid talking.

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

The city? Definitely! The University Bordeaux Montaigne 3 (where I currently study) ? yes! But be prepared to be sometimes ignored by officials, get no response to e-mails and do things on your own.

What is the food like?

expensive... compared to Romania, France is a really expensive country. But it has tasty food in chic locations.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Bordeaux?

no. I applied through CROUS

How much does it cost to live in Bordeaux?

250/month + food, transport, books and fun

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

There are language courses, but I decided not to take them as I already have a busy schedule. You get used to the speed of the native, but it takes time.

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

Oh God! Try the English pubs, all of them. Sherlock Holmes, House of Parliaments, The English Kitchen... and the list goes on.

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

Brace yourself! (mainly because French people don't get along well with English)