Erasmus Experience in Cork, Ireland by Aurore

Why did you choose to go to Cork, Ireland?

I just had two choices: Cork or Limerick. From what I've heard Cork was much better (and it is). As the 2nd biggest city in Ireland, Cork is really dynamic and safe. Plus, UCC is a wonderful place to study !

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

I just stayed in Cork for one semester: from January to May.
Back in France I received around 577€ a month and I also benefited scholarships from the Erasmus organisation (800€) and from my home region (1500€). Way enough to live in Cork and to visit Ireland as you please x)

What is the student lifestyle like in Cork?

As I lived in Shanakiel, I was quite far from the city center but still as I said, Cork is a really dynamic city, providing enough entertainment every week. Moreover, the UCC International Student Office organise events (almost every week) and trips (Kerry, Galway, Belfast...).

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

Of course I would. This was an amazing experience which enabled me to discover the country as well as new people and customs. The people here are really nice (compared to France anyway xD).
Plus, I think the city is really safe, I've never had problems personally.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Cork?

A little bit yeah. I turned off the proposition made by UCC as it was too expensive for me. Then, I had to find a place to live by myself, visited several websites, sent email (most of them without response).
And finally, I found this website Erasmusu.com, which helped me a lot!

How much does it cost to live in Cork?

Personally, I lived in a shared house with two other girls ans it was 400€ per month. But, some student accommodations are around 600/650€ per month.

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

Some Irish people have indeed a strong accent and sometimes they talked too fast. But, as they are really friendly to international students, they always do their bests to slow down and be understood. It's not that difficult actually xD
There is a lot of different languages taught at UCC, you can even learn a bit of Irish if you want a complete immersive experience.

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

From France, I'd say that the most economic way to travel is by plain. I am sure you can catch some deals in september or october.
Personally, I did a road trip to come to Ireland (London, Cardiff, Pembroke, Rosslare and finally Cork). 3 days trip = almost 300€ but the pleasure was there =)

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

Tough question xD
I would recommend the Oliver Plunkett, the Fransiscan Well (both of them), the An bròg and the Old Oak regarding pubs ^^
If you're looking for a nightclub, Cyprus Avenue is fine (2nd floor of the Old Oak and privatized nightclub for all the UCC International Student Office parties)

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

There are several wonderful churches and cathedrals in Cork city. Near my house, there is also the Cork City Goal which is an interesting and really cheap museum.
And first thing you have to do is to find the spot showed in the movie Young Offenders. You can see half the city from up there xD

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

Just be careful during the Rag week, Irish people tend to be drunk all days xD