My Erasmus in Leipzig. Would go again!

Why did you choose to go to Leipzig, Germany?

I study German Philology, so Germany was first on my list of destinations. I like cities which aren´t too big but aren´t too small either, and so I thought Leipzig was a good option. The University of Leipzig is also one of the best places for studying languages in Germany.

How long did your scholarship last? How much were you paid?

I was there for ten months. Every student can choose how long they go for (between 6 and 10 months). My recommendation is that you choose to go for as long as possible, as then you´ll enjoy yourself even more!

In terms of money, I think the situation is now very different to how it was a few years ago. I received the full scholarship (and so was paid some 8, 000 euros in total) but unfortunately, the amount of money you receive is now much less.

What´s the student life like in Leipzig?

It´s a university city, so the student atmosphere is great. There are loads of young people and you meet students from all over the world. The University of Leipzig is one of the most renowned in Europe in terms of studying languages (philology, translation and interpreting, linguistics... ), so you´ll get to know so many international people (in classes as well as in the student halls).

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

I´d recommend this city and this university to everyone! I spent a year there and it was one of the best experiences of my life. The city is fantastic, the people are lovely and I felt very comfortable living there.

The university is also great, and everyone was friendly and welcoming to me. If you don´t know much German, don´t worry too much, as most of the classes are in English.

What´s the food like in Leipzig?

Well... food is a delicate issue. Not just in Leipzig, but in Germany as a whole. In Spain we´re verrry used to eating very good food, and so of course, when you go to Germany... you appreciate this even more.

The supermarkets have everything you need though. Take jamoncito and oranges with you, and be prepared!;)

Did you find it hard to find somewhere to live in Leipzig?

I found accommodation quickly through the students services website (http://www.studentenwerk-leipzig.de). I requested a room in a student hall of residence (I had to sort it out quite far in advance) and they gave me one straight away.

You can also choose to live in a shared flat, but then you have to spend a bit longer searching. I recommend the student halls of residence if you´re doing Erasmus.

How expensive is everyday life in Leipzig?

Leipzig is in former East Germany, and although it´s many years since Germany reunified, there are still differences between the East and West. For example, the East is muuuuch cheaper (in all senses). The accommodation is super cheap and the food too. Transport is free all day every day with a student semester ticket (which costs 80 euros for six months, but is definitely worth it).

How are you finding the language? Have you signed up to a language course at the university?

German is difficult, let´s not beat about the bush here. I already knew quite a lot of German before I arrived, but I still signed up for some free courses at the university. It´s only free from A2 level upwards, but I found the classes quite helpful. They also offer specific language courses for different career directions (for example, German for engineers, architects, linguists... ).

What´s the cheapest way of getting to Leipzig from your home city?

I´m from Valencia and I flew back and forth the whole year with AirBerlin. It´s an expensive airline, but they treat you better than on some of the low-cost airlines. In any case, there are lots of flight options.

What are the best places for partying in Leipzig?

The best-known street for going out to is Karl-Liebknecht-Strasse, although everyone just calls it ´Karli`. There are also lots of bars and clubs where they sometimes throw Erasmus parties, and in March an open-air place opens called La Playa which is great for sitting outside with a drink.

What about eating out in Leipzig? What are your favourite places?

There really are lots of good places to eat. In the street I mentioned before, the famous ´Karli`, you´ĺl find loads of restaurants.

What does Leipzig have to offer in terms of culture?

There are a few museums (one of which is on the main street, Grimmaische Strasse, and is cool and interactive) and places to visit. There are some lakes which freeze over in winter and are beautiful when the summer comes, and there are also lots of monuments worth visiting.

Do you have any advice for future students coming to Leipzig?

Enjoy as much as you can in this fantastic city. You won´t regret going there. Although come prepared for the winter! :)