My Erasmus Experience in Leeds, United Kingdom

Why did you choose to go to Leeds, United Kingdom?

I chose Leeds because it's a city in the centre of the United Kingdom so it meant that I could travel all around, and go to the bigger and interesting cities like York, Manchester and Liverpool- which are all on my doorstep! It also appealed to me because it's in the middle of really big cities and the countryside, i. e. there aren't crazy London prices but you get the same atmosphere. And finally, I chose it because the university is good and really reputable.

How long's your stay? What financial aid do you receive?

I was there for 10 months. I received several grants; the normal CROUS one, an Erasmus mobility aid and University Erasmus grant. I received financial help from my parents and I had the money that I'd already saved too. Many students also received a grant from their region or university department, however I didn't as I unfortunately wasn't entitled to it.

What's the student vibe like in Leeds?

The student atmosphere is amazing. If you want to do Erasmus to mainly party, then Leeds is the best city in England. Freshers' Week will get you stuck in straight away right from the beginning and you'll meet an enormous amount of people who will keep you entertained all year long. There's a few bars and different themed night clubs which are all relaxed and varied; you have students bars, traditional English pubs, and chic and gay clubs. All the English people I met are very open-minded!

Would you recommend the city or university to other students?

Of course! Leeds is the perfect place to have fun as well as to receive a quality education! There are plenty of things to see within the city and the university is magnificent!

What's England's food like?

You can't hide the fact that England isn't famous for its food, and Leeds is no exception! So, if you want extremely good food then stay in France, Italy, or Spain! However, I personally loved the fish and chips, roast dinners, English breakfasts and definitely the Yorkshire puddings, (a regional speciality but is eaten everywhere in England). The English students will always surprise you with their eating habits!

How did you find your accommodation in Leeds?

It was easy to find it, thanks to the university's halls of residence service which guaranties accommodation to every student who requests it.

What are living costs like in Leeds?

Mine was around £450 a month. I think that you can easily find somewhere cheaper if you look in the neighbourhoods around Leeds.

What's it like learning the language there? Did you take part in a language course organised by the university?

Personally, I already spoke fluent English before arriving in Leeds, so I didn't take part in any language courses but I think that they are organised. However, the best way to learn the language is by spending time with English people!

What's the most economical way to get to Leeds from your home town?

Coming from Lille, I took the Eurostar to London and then caught a train to Leeds. The train isn't expensive at all. I have some friends from the south who found cheap flights to Manchester or Liverpool and then caught a train to Leeds.

Where do you recommend to go out in Leeds?

There is so much! I recommend discovering your own favourites, but take a look at these to get started:

• Halo
• Tiger Tiger
• Mission
• Mission 2
• Queen's Court (Gay nightclub)
• Fruity
• Fab

And to eat in Leeds? What are your favourite places?

The traditional English pubs and the fish and chip shops!

And what cultural places do you recommend going to see?

• Leeds Museum (there's a Spicy Girls exhibition! )
• Clarence Dock
• The city centre and the Victoria Quarter

Any advice for future students going to Leeds?

Don't bother worrying about anything before going because as soon as you get there, all your worries will just quickly disappear! Enjoy yourself whilst you're there because before you know it, tomorrow will be the last day of your adventure!