Erasmus Experience in Jyväskylä, Finland by Véronique

Why did you choose to go to Jyväskylä, Finland?

For me it was the only choice in Finland, but in the end, I'm really glad I ended up in Jyväskylä. This city is full of life! You can go to awesome bars, meet a lot of new people, visit the museums, etc. This city is not big, but has a lot to offer!

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

I got money from the government (around 350 euros each month).

What is the student lifestyle like in Jyväskylä?

The student life in Jyväskylä is so much fun! You constantly meet new people to hang out with. The bars are so cool! Ruma, Freetime and Bra are the biggest ones, but a lot of small bars are so cool too! They always say Finns are really shy? Wait until you meet them in a bar! Nothing shy about them at all!

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

Definitely! The education system is really great, and you get a lot of freedom/responsibility to do it your own way.

What is the food like?

The food is not really different, but they have some specials! The rice cake for example! Also the salmon is soooooooooooooooooooooooo good here!

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Jyväskylä?

I got something really fast because a finnish girl was doing an Erasmus, too! I got lucky with my apartment in Ristonmaa.

How much does it cost to live in Jyväskylä?

It's quite expensive, a beer in the bar is around 5 euros. If you buy beer in the shop it's 2-3 euro. Going out to eat is also expensive, that I never did. And tip: after 11 PM there is a night tax in the McDonald's! Go there before! (Also good pizzerias in Jyväskylä).

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

Ruma was my favorite! But Freetime and Bra are awesome as well!

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

Just go and meet new people, be openminded for a new culture!

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