An Erasmus experience in Joensuu, Finland by Bruna

Why did you choose to go to Joensuu, Finland?

Good university for my degree.

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

From 3 to 4 months.

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

Yes and no. As all the cities it has pros and cons, but, altough I have made wonderful memories and some things have been worth it, there were some cons that would not make me return.

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What is the food like?

Loved it! Very international, full with spices and really yummi, but there's no that much traditional food. The typical North Karelian pie (karjalanpiirakka) is good, but I didn't ate it many times.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Joensuu?

Not at all! One of my biggest concerns: finding accommodation. When I found a house I had to buy furniture because it was empty, and make a contract for the electricity and Internet.

How much does it cost to live in Joensuu?

More than 700€/month easily.

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

I had a course of Introduction to Finnish and I loved it. It's not that hard to learn if you manage to memorize a lot of vocabulary, because the grammar is not that hard (of course that this was a basic course, with just the essentials).

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

Airplane and then bus from Helsinki to Joensuu.

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

Illona´s; Kerubi's; Bar Play (very good for snacks, hot chocolate and games with friends); a cozy coffee house (don´t know the name) in a tiny mall in Rantakatu street (near Carlson).

Source

Source: https://www.kayak.com.pe/Renta-economica-de-autos-Joensuu.23484.cars.ksp

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

You need to go to the Koli National Park at least once!

Is there any other advice that you could give to students going to Joensuu in the future?

Bring a car and a lot of warm clothes, hahaha.