Erasmus Experience in Kraków, Poland by Jimena

Why did you choose to go to Kraków, Poland?

I wanted to go somewhere totally different to Spain.

In the beginning my first choices were the English or Portuguese speaking places, because I already knew those languages and I'd be able to strengthen them when I was there.

But I decided to take a risk and to try something totally different and I was really drawn to Eastern Europe.

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

The scholarship lasted a semestre, I got €1, 500 but how much you get depends on the cost of living in the country you're going to.

Poland is in the group of countries with a low cost of living, so they only give you €1, 500, the maximum amount for countries like England or Austria is €2, 500. You get more financial aid from your regional government.

What is the student lifestyle like in Kraków?

It's really good and there are a lot of young university students. There isn't what people might call a university area, where all the faculties are together, but rather each of the faculties are in their own place.

The faculty buildings are huge and historic, they make it really nice to go to to university.

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

Absolutely.

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What is the food like there?

I really like it but the food there is essentially hot and rich in carbohydrates, in short, it gives you something for your body to burn up in the cold winters.

As for traditional foods:

• The sweet pierogis as well as savoury ones (the taste like dumplings).
• Soups like Barszcz aka Polish Borscht (a beetroot soup).
• German style sausages, like you'd expect.

As for drinks, the most popular beer is the brand Tyskie, and the most popular brand of vodka is Soplica.

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

The language is one of the most difficult in the world, it's impossible but you should try and learn some.

The worst things is the pronunciation.

They put on free Polish courses at the university and sometimes the credits you get from them can be valid as free choice credits.

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

By plane with Ryanair.

Where would you recommend for a night out in Kraków?

The area in the centre of the city is the prettiest. All of the clubs are nearby and there are always events on that have been organised by the faculties.

There are parties on every day.

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