Erasmus Experience in Kortrijk, Belgium by Kornél

Why did you choose to go to Kortrijk, Belgium?

Because I was told that the KATHO Hogeschool is famous and well-known for it's sociology faculty. I was also wondering how would it be to live in the center of the European Union.

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

The length and the value of the scholarship varies from school to school. Based on my study contract, I received 1,200 euros from my college and the hungarian government altogether for 5 months (one semester). I had the opportunity to extend it, but I did not want to do so, because the scholarship was not enough to cover my expenses, and I just wanted to go home to finish my studies.

What is the student lifestyle like in Kortrijk?

For me it was very controversial and edifying. Compared to the student lifestyle in Hungary, it was over-organized and controlled. I had no difficulties with the learning material, but I was unable to follow the lots of programs and deadlines and field trips and parties and courses and timetable and...

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

Absolutely! My world view has changed a lot since I spent half a year in such a multicultural environment.

What is the food like?

BELEGDE BROODJE RULEZ!

Was it difficult to find your accommodation in Kortrijk?

I found that usually it is a bit difficult and expensive to find an accomodation on your own in Belgium. I was lucky because I got a room from the KATHO next to the campus.

How much does it cost to live in Kortrijk?

To rent a flat, it takes, minimum, 500 euros a month. Food, utilities, transportation also a minimum of 500 euros a month. Plus internet, hobbies, restaurants, so on, it costs 1,500 euros month to live in Belgium (average). As an Erasmus student, I had to spend 500 euros a month.

Maybe this could help:

http://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/country_result.jsp?country=Belgium

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

If you are forced to communicate in English every minute, then you will learn it much faster. And yes, there are also some good language courses.

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

The most simple way to travel from Hungary to Belgium is by air transport. The most economical way is by coach line.

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

I heard about the fine beverages (especially beer) of Belgium. If you want to try them, then I can recommend you a nice family-size romantic flemish pub anywhere in the city.

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

As I mentioned earlier, I really liked the 'belegde broodje'. It is basicly a sandwich, made of fine, fresh, good quality, healthy vegetables and ingredients. It can be bought at every corner. About the flemish cuisine... Well, perhaps I am a bit patriotic, but I think the hungarian meal is the best in the world. (Different strokes for different folks... )

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Kortrijk is a small lovely countryside town with some nice historical monuments and a lot of attractions. It's a pity that I had no time to visit them.

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

My worst experience was that some students went to Kortrijk just because of the parties. Don't misunderstand me, I like to have fun also; but please, if you want to get drunk in the middle of the exam period then let the others to learn and rest well.