Erasmus Experience in Lausanne, Switzerland by Anna

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Why did you choose to go to Lausanne, Switzerland?

It's an adorable place on the French Riviera. It's a small city with all the advantages of the megalopolis. The most beautiful nature I've ever seen: lake Leman, Swiss Alps, amazing landscapes... But at the same time, Lausanne is very vivid and interesting. It's the French-speaking part of Switzerland, hence for me it was a great chance to enhance my French-speaking skills.

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

I haven't been granted any scholarship. I'm a Master Student and the programme is 2 years long.

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What is the student lifestyle like in Lausanne?

I'm doing a Master of Economics at HEC Université de Lausanne. To be honest, the education system here is different from Europe and the UK in particular... So be prepared for the hardest period in your life. Here you can forget about "personal life" since all your time will be devoted to studying. It's extremely hard here and uni is unbelievably competitive. Or work hard, or don't come.

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

Yes, absolutely.

What is the food like?

You can find here any kind of cuisine you like.

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Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Lausanne?

Accommodation is Switzerland is extremely expensive and it's almost not possible to find any free apartment! So start to search the place to live as in advance as in 7-8 months before coming.

How much does it cost to live in Lausanne?

I'll be honest with you, it's very expensive. Switzerland is the most expensive country of Europe.

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

Yes, there are plenty of free courses at Uni, and you can choose any level you need. Besides, although people here are able to speak English, I strongly recommend you to start learning French, before coming here.

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

From my city, the only way to travel is by plane; there are no other choices. The best way to go is from the nearest airport to Geneva Airport.

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

During the last 3 months, I didn't have a chance to go for a night out. if you will get enrolled at a Swiss university, you will understand why. However, Lausanne has a plenty of beautiful places to party or chill out. You can find the place for any budget you want. The most popular place among students is the Flon Area which is located in the city centre, since there is plenty of restaurants, cafes, bars, nightclubs, and cinemas.

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

I didn't have time for that, sorry.

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What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Lausanne has a plenty of museums and galleries, such as the Olympic Museum.

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

Be prepared to WORK HARD. Fortunately, Lausanne is one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen! I'm enjoying each minute spent here...

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