Erasmus Experience in Cork, Ireland by Thananya

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

I had saved up money from before by working part time, and in addition I had a loan and a grant from the educational government in my country

What is the student lifestyle like in Cork?

While living in Cork, I did feel like it was a student atmosphere there. Especially with all the clubs and societies, which are free, there is something for everybody. Additionally, there were quite a lot of student parties and all the pubs helps you yo get to know the Irish culture as well.

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

I would definitely recommend the city and the university to future students who's either planning of doing their Erasmus exchange or a whole degree. The city itself is small, but really nice and lovely, and the inhabitants of Cork must be one of the nicest people I've ever met! The teachers in my courses were superfriendly and really helpful. They were also understanding when it comes to international students, and as well flexible

What is the food like?

The food is quite simpel consisting of chips, of course hehe. There's a place, about 10min walking from the uni, where they have the city's best chips! That's a must try!

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Cork?

Well, in my case I didn't book a student doorm. Instead I booked in a hostel for a few nights, and search on the private marked for a room in a shared flat/house. It was quite difficult, especially when I was only to stay there for 3 months but in general it isn't easy. I would only recommend doing this if you have previous experience in searching on the private marked, a lot pf patience and some guts as well.

How much does it cost to live in Cork?

Even though Cork is a small city, the rent can be higher than expected especially in the private marked. I would say that it is cheaper there if you're from northern Europe, while it would be more expensive if you're from southern Europe

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

The only thing is the Irish accent, which you get used to quite fast. I do not know if there were any language courses available at the uni, since my English was quite good from before.

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

From Oslo it would be to take a flight to Dublin, and then taking the bus. This is the cheapest option but also the longest one. You can always take the train from Dublin, this is faster but will cost you more.

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

There is this club who gives free entrance every Friday night to international students, so remember you student id. Or else there are a lot of pubs which is a good craic!

And for eating? Can you recommend some good restaurants in Cork?

As a student I didn't eat out much due to budget. However, I went a few times to one of the city's oldes fish and chips place, which I mentioned earlier about the must try chips. Especially with cheddar and garlic sauce

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

There's not so much to do in Cork, it is a small city. But the location is great to go to another city. This is doable by taking the train, which won't cost you much.

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

I would recommend to learn a little Irish, just to get to know the country and culture better. And definitely join the gym, and perhaps some clubs/socs, this is all free through the uni by the way!