Erasmus Experience in Krakow, Poland by Zuleykha

Why did you choose to go to Krakow, Poland?

Well, actually I wanted to study in Germany, but I didn't get enough points for to go there, so I can say that Krakow chosed me, but actually I am really happy for that. I really love Krakow, it's an amazing city. Some people say that people from Poland are very cold, but for me they're completely wrong. Polish people are very friendly. If you want to ask something or if you have any problem, they will really try to help you. And I study at the Jagiellonian Unversity, which is the number one university in Poland. Their education sistem very good. In general, in Poland education is very good. They love to study and also to work, so I love Krakow.

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

My scholarship lasts for about 10 months, and I received around 1000€. Poland is a cheap country, so I think that for 1 month, 500€ is enough for living, but it also depend in which kind of flat you live. I say this because I share a flat with my friend, but they also have good dorms. Here you can find everything you want. For me, it is very good, because my country and Poland are a little bit similar. And if you know Russian or Ukranian, it will be easier for you to understand their language.

What is the student lifestyle like in Krakow?

It is great question. So Krakow is a turist but also a student city. There are so many universities here, and there are so many activities for student to do. They also have special discounts for student, for example: if you want to travel to any city in Poland or another countries, they offer you 51% discount just for being a student. And you can also pay approximately 43€ for 5 month of transportation in Krakow. They have a special center where you can get the city card, but if you are student, you can use your student card instead of this city card. And of course they have parties every day, especially for Erasmus students, they have really good parties. And if they know you are an Erasmus student, it means you're special, and they will help with absolutely everything.

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

Of course, Krakow is a great city. As I said before, the education system here is great. So don't hesitate to choose Krakow.

What is the food like?

Well, they have special dishes like Pierogis, and actually I don't know any more names, but I think everyone likes Polish cuisine.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Krakow?

Well, me and my friend couldn't find an accommodation before coming to Krakow. But when we arrived in Krakow, we found an agency that helped us. Now we live in flat and we pay 150€, bills included. But of course they have special groups on Facebook which you can find flats easily. Don't worry, the coordinators will also send you links of dormitories, and you can choose the one you prefer.

How much does it cost to live in Krakow?

For students, I think living in Krakow so cheap. For example, they have so many shopping centers where you can find whatever you want. They also have Carrefour, Auchan, Lewiatan, etc. They say that Biedronka is the best supermarket for student, and I think it's true, but the problem is that I never find what I want, and my advise is to go to shopping in "Auchan". It's very cheap and you can find so many things, and also don't forget to check the serial number on the food or what you buy, because there so many things. And always choose own things from the brand Auchan, it is much cheaper.

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

Well, as I wrote before, if you know any Slavic language it will be easier for you to learn. But in general I think that yes, you can learn Polish. And yes, they offer courses at university and they're free. But if you really want to learn Polish language you need to pay, and they will give you 6 ECTS credits, but you can only get these credits when studying Polish, not any other language.

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

Well, if you want to travel in Poland, it is very cheap (5€). Travelling to other countries from Krakow is very easy, and I can tell you it's cheap. Also, as I wrote before, they have discounts for students. You can travel by bus, by plane or train.

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

They have so many clubs, but I recommended the Shine club and also Point club, which is where most of Erasmus parties are orginazed. If you want to relax, you can walk around Vistula river, it's really beautiful. And also if you love jazz, you can go to Harris Piano Jazz Bar.

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

Here there are so many places, but for students the best place is KOKO. You can choose 4 or 5 dishes and pay approximately 3€ for everything.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Krakow is a historical place, so there are so many museums in the city. You can visit all of them, they're very interesting to see. And I can say that even though I've been here for about 3 months now, I discover Krakow all over again every single day.

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

I think it would be good to watch this videos about Poland. Good luck! Best wishes.

Poland is beautiful

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