Erasmus Experience in Derby, the United Kingdom by Sarah

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

I chose it because the University of Derby has very good testimonies. It was recommended to me and here I am.

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How long does the grant last? How much money do you receive as aid?

I asked for credit from the state so I don't pay for the degree as such. I pay all the other expenses myself.

How is student life in Derby?

Derby practically is students. I mean the city is dead without them; and even so, don't expect anything special.

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

The university is very easy. This is to say, you don't have to put any effort in to pass the course. You have enough free time for yourself. You could do things in the city if there was something to do, but there isn't much.

How is the country's food?

They don't have traditional food or food or their own. Leave it at that. This means that the English eat ready prepared food and from different parts of the world. There is a lot of curry which I love and a lot of spicy food, which I don't have a problem with either.

Was it hard to find accommodation in Derby?

Truthfully no because I chose to live in the university residence.

How much does it cost to live in Derby?

Life in England is very expensive. For example, as soon as you've gone to the shop to buy things for a salad, you've already spend 12 pounds. I would recommend making an expenditure or budget plan.

How is the language? Did you go to any courses in the University?

Let's see, I didn't have any problems with English but I met many people who didn't have any idea and they didn't have any problem getting along with the others. There is a free course at the university. If you go to it at least once a week, they give you a qualification at the end of it which you can validate for credits.

What is the most affordable way to get to Derby from your city?

I caught the plane from Madrid to London and then some people from the uni came to pick me up. This service is free. There are closer airports to Derby than London, such as East Midlands or Birmingham.

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

Look, the best thing would be if you were to find a friend with their own house and who had all their own parties there. We went to places such as Lola Lo and Walkabout many times but the music leaves a lot to be desired and the people sometimes, too.

Lola Lo

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And to eat in Derby? Can you cite your favourite places?

I usually go to an Asian place in the shopping centre, Intu. For 5 pounds, you are really well fed. If not, and if you can afford it, there are very good places like The European and Bellamora, where you pay for quality obviously.

Intu Derby

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Intu Derby

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And as a cultural visit?

Someone tell me what I can see here because I haven't found anything that's caught my attention yet. There are several churches and they are interesting - at least to me, they seemed so.

Any advice that you'd like to give to future students in Derby?

Guys, there are much better places than Derby, although I've found the best possible company here and I'm honestly living a dream. However, it's that I've resigned myself with having a good group of friends to alleviate the pain. Lots of luck!