Erasmus experience in Gothenburg, Sweden by Debora

Why did you decide to study in Gothenburg, Sweden?

Obviously Sweden is one of the most developed in Europe, especially in the filed of engineering. The choice to study at this city was made particularly given the Quality of the university of Chalmers.

How long does the Erasmus loan last? How much money did you receive for support?

Las year the study loan comprised of a contribution of €230 per month and lasted 6 months; Usually it depends from city to city and every year things can change.

What is the student life like in Gothenburg?

The student life is perfect there, there are many students that come from all over the world, therefore the city is always prepared to organise events to welcome new students and greet them; additionally in every university, there are some groups of students, that try to promote socialisation between students that have just arrived and organise trips away.

Would you recommend the city and the university of Gothenburg to other students?

Certainly.

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What is the food like there?

Swedish food is like the food you can eat at Ikea! Nothing special in particular, a lot of salmon, Reindeer meat and cinnamon buns.

Was it difficult to find accommodation in Gothenburg?

Very difficult, it is one of the big disadvantages of the city that caters for so many students all year round! There are many students associations and faculties that can find you a house straight away, but in my case, I had to search for one myself and it is very difficult!

A piece of advice that I can give, is to search as early as possible and to not worry to much about the distance of the accommodation from the city centre, because public transport is very efficient.

What are living costs like in Gothenburg?

Quite a lot, the prices are as high in the supermarkets as they are for transport.

How did it go with the language there? Did you attend any courses at the university?

I didn't learn Swedish because for an Italian it is very difficult, but I did notice that it is easier for German students, because some of the grammatical rules are similar.

What is the cheapest way to arrive in Gothenburg from your city?

Ryanair fly to Gothenburg the whole year round. Flights in the winter are limited obviously and it is the cheapest airline.

Where would you advise for going out in Gothenburg during the evening?

The most attended night clubs are in the Avenyn, the Main Street of the city!

What is there to eat in Gothenburg? Can you tell us about some of your favourite places?

Unfortunately it is very expensive to have lunch or dinner in the city; but there are some places where you can avoid spending a lot of money and eat typical Swedish cuisine: Fish Market (really good fish dishes to take away), Saluhallen (inside you can find different take away or self service dishes, where you can taste dishes just made up of meat). Haga street (excellent for a "fika", which is a traditional Swedish coffee break made up of a coffee and and amazing cake or biscuit).

Are there any cultural sites to see?

The statue of Poseidon, the harbour, the maritime museum.

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