Erasmus Experience in Gelsenkirchen, Germany by Leonard

Why did you choose to go to Gelsenkirchen, Germany?

I choose Gelsenkirchen because the University has all the equipment neccesary for my work diploma. This University has high standards.

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

The scholarship was for 6 months bat I stayed just 3 months because I was in the finish year and I had to present my graduation paper.
I received about 500 euro per month. You need to know that you have to pay about 250 euro at school for school fee and public transportation. The good thing is that you can travel with all public transport in the Land Nordrhein-Westfalia.

What is the student lifestyle like in Gelsenkirchen?

They are many foreign studens in Gelsenkirchen Hochschule. They have a tutor and this tutor organize many extracurricular activities. So when you arrive there contact your tutor.

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

Yes, I recommend the city and the Gelsenkirchen University. No need to worry for Land Nordrhein-Westfalia because is the most populated land in Germany. The near cities are: Dormund, Essen, Diusburg, Dusseldorf, Bochum (very known by the stundets for night life), Cologne

What is the food like?

The food is ok. If you have time and pleasure you can prepare it yourself. If you have money to spend you can eat in restaurants or fast foods like mostly students.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Gelsenkirchen?

I signed for accomodation before reaching Gelsenkirchen. The university has some buildings for students. You need to sign a contract for 6 months.
The rent is approximately 1600 euro for 6 months. You can pay in two rates. For this money you all the facilities: electricity, heating (winter period), water. So you not have to pay anything extra.

How much does it cost to live in Gelsenkirchen?

If you know about what you need, do not cost too much. If you are a spender, you need a lot of money. If you like the clubs and pubs you need to know that the alcoholic drinks are expensive in this places.

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

Depends. If you had contact with German language, I'll be easier.
Yes, the language courses are available in the university.

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

The most easiest and the most economical way is by airplane. You can flight from your city to Dormund Airport. From Dormund you have to take the train to Gelsenkirchen. Is very near so that is not a problem.

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

In Gelsenkirchen there is a little night life. If you wanna go out try Bochum, Essen, Dormund.

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

No, because I have prepared my own food. I rarely eat fast foods. I you like fast foods try turkish cuisine.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

You will visit many places. Contact your tutor when you get there and talk to him.

Is there any other advice that you could give to future students who are going to Gelsenkirchen?

Enjoy your time there. Make many friends.