Erasmus Experience in Göttingen, Germany by Luka

Why did you choose to go to Göttingen, Germany?

Firstly, I didn't want to go to Germany, but then in the end some other options weren't as appropriate as Germany. When I realized I was going to Germany I picked Göttingen because of it's position in Germany, the size of the city, the stories I've heard and the university.

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

I received scholarship for all 10 months of my exchange. I got 330€ from the University of Maribor and additional 150€ from the government of my country. So all together 480€. It was enough to survive in Göttingen and my parents didn't have to give me any extra money.

What is the student lifestyle like in Göttingen?

Göttingen for me is the meaning of the word student life! Everywhere you go there are students, you can hear different languages, see young people, etc. When someone asked me what I liked the most about Göttingen I always said that I felt that I really belonged there in that period of my life.

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

No doubts!

What is the food like?

You have mensas in different places, the main one Zentral Mensa in ZHG building is the biggest and for my taste the best one. The prices for students are really good and the quality of the food also. You have many options every day and there is something for everyone. Other than this there is lots of restaurant all over the city and of course fast food like tasty kebabs or Asian boxes.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Göttingen?

Firstly, I got a room in a student dorm. Every Erasmus student will get a room in a student dorm or in a private accommodation prior his arrival. But in the second semester I stayed without a room because I prolonged my exchange. That was a bit of a problem, since finding a room in Göttingen by yourself isn't an easy task. I also didn't get any help from a coordinator Frau Seack because she thought my knowledge of German was more that fine to do it myself, but Spanish people for example didn't have to do it by themselves.

How much does it cost to live in Göttingen?

It depends on a person. I spent around 400€ per month. I paid a rent of 202€ and the rest I spent on food and my pleasure so to say.

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

It depends on your language skills. I had a B2 level of German before I came so it wasn't that difficult for me. All the people speak English anyway, so no worries. There are German language courses for free for all the foreign students and also all the other languages (a lot of them), also free of charge for Erasmus students.

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

From my city it was maybe the train from the Austrian border, which you can get for 39€. Also the plane ticket from Vienna to Hannover can be very cheap. I paid only 19€ with luggage once.

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

EinsB, Freihafen, Savoy, Tagente, JTKeller, Barracuda, Alpenmax...

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

Nudelhaus, Kartoffelhaus, Vapiano, all the Kebab landen-s.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

There is a Theatre in Göttingen.

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

Be spontanious, have fun, it is once in a lifetime experience you have to have. Get to know as many people as you can and try to get to know German culture and enjoy your stay in Göttingen!

P. S. Go to every party, even though it rains, snows or the wind blows!

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