Erasmus Experience in Kotka, Finland by Ania

Why did you choose to go to Kotka, Finland?

Because they're the leaders in education and i wanted to live the experience to work with the best teachers in the world

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

I stay here 2 months and i receive 400€ per month- way to small money which doesn't even cover plane ticket and rent for 2 months

What is the student lifestyle like in Kotka?

I'm very happy so far, i was very lucky to be in a school where I work. I've got plenty of time for studying,sport n friends

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

I don't study at a university i do my professional working training here but Kotka's really great place and people are absolutely lovely

What is the food like?

Food is great, pasta,potatoes,meat,soups,anything you could think about to warm up your stomach ;)

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Kotka?

No, because I had flat arranged, as far as i know students live here in sort of student's houses

How much does it cost to live in Kotka?

My rent is 580€ a month, then add 20€ for internet data if you don't have free WiFi, food around 250€ a month, plus traveling n eating out-quite expensive

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

Finnish is easy, you say what you read. I learn from people and children at work

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

I got flight from Poland for something like 350€, flight from Alicante in Spain was around 400€

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

City centre

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

Haven't been in any in Kotka so far

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

Make sure you've got good extra money if you won't work here cos comparing to other countries in Europe it's pretty expensive