Erasmus Experience in Geneva, Switzerland by Yebin

Why did you choose to go to Geneva, Switzerland?

For matters of study. I did my degree in the translation and interpretation of languages in Spain. The University of Geneva is one of the best universities in the world to better learn translation. Indeed, the teachers there are brilliant.

The University of Geneva

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How long is the scholarship for? How much money do you receive as aid?

I was there from mid-September until mid-June; or in other words, 8 months. I don't remember much about the money but the Andalusia Council gave me money, aside from the Government Erasmus grant. However despite it, it wasn't sufficient to pay rent and to buy food.

How is student life in Geneva?

Well, the University has a lot of student ambiance. You learn a lot and you're required to study a lot too.

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

Of course. If you're able to go to Geneva to study, then don't hesitate to because it's a very international city and you can meet people from all over the world there. It's rather enriching in every sense of the word. However, don't back out because of the money because the University provides an access page to search for one off or occasional jobs so you can earn a little bit of money.

How is the country's food?

Well, apart from fondue with cheese and chocolate, in general, I don't remember anything special but for sure, the prices are generally expensive. However, it's bordering France. You can easily get to France by public transport to buy things and the prices are quite a bit more affordable.

Cheese fondue

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Was it hard to find accommodation in Geneva?

The accommodation was very difficult for me! I lived in France (the area bordering with Geneva) because in fact, there is barely anywhere free to live in Geneva and it's generally a bit expensive. However there are student halls and I recommend one of them being the Cité Universitaire which is by Champel (a neighbourhood in Geneva). It's priced well for Geneva, varying between 475 and 600 euros. Because of this, you have to send them an email to beg them a bit to give you a room.

How much does it cost to live in Geneva?

In my case, I paid more or less 475 euros rent, then food is around 250 euros plus public transport, which is more or less 50 euros a month.

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

French is spoken in Geneva but the University offers several French courses at different levels, if you have problems with French, focused on writing or grammar. If you pass the course's final exam, they give you credits; and those credits, you can validate in Spain.

What's the most affordable way of getting to Geneva from your city?

In my case, you can get there easily from Madrid with Easyjet or Swiss.

Which places would you recommend to go out and party in Geneva?

There is a party every Wednesday but I don't remember where.

And to eat in Geneva? Can you name your favourite places?

Well I can't name them because I don't believe I eat out much due to the prices but I've tried the Fondue in Bains de Paquis. This restaurant was in the area of Lake Geneva.

Lake Geneva

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And as a cultural visit?

Well, there are many international organisations and it's worth coming here.

Any advice that you want to give to future students in Geneva?

Well, first of all, I wish you lots of luck and a happy stay if you're going to study in Geneva. From my experience, I advise all the students to be very open to everything, in order to integrate more easily into the surroundings and form good friendships with people from all over the world.

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