Erasmus Experience in Leuven, Belgium by Artem

Why did you choose to go to Leuven, Belgium?

A professor from my home-university advised me to go to Belgium. She told me, that KU Leuven has a huge variety of courses related to my speciality. I got acquainted with the courses list and I was interested in the curriculum. I decided to go to Leuven, because it promised to be interesting. When I arrived here, the organization of KU Leuven and ESN members were at the top level. I was impressed by the orientation week which had been organized before the classes started. We were informed about our life and study at the University as much as possible. Staff members paid much attention to everybody.

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I didn’t regret about my choice of this exchange program. All classes I’ve chosen are very interesting; professors are always ready to help us. I enjoy the atmosphere of studying here; each class is a great revelation for me. I come to know a lot of useful information in the University.

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

I receive grant of 800 Euro per month. Besides, it was paid traveling expense (360 Euro). I live in Voronezh (central part of Russia), so it was enough to get from my home city to Leuven and back.

What is the student lifestyle like in Leuven?

The student lifestyle in Leuven is amazing. There are a lot of opportunities and facilities here for students. In my free time I meet my new friends. We usually go to the cafes and talk a lot! We travel much in our weekends. It is a great fun to discover new cities and countries, new people and traditions. There are a lot of parks in Leuven, where people can meet and relax.

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

Yes, certainly! KU Leuven is a wonderful university, where everybody can find everything he or she wants and needs! Each moment of being here is a great desire for knowledge and fun as well!

What is the food like?

There are a lot of cafes and restaurants in Leuven. Sometimes I go there to have dinner. KU Leuven offers for its students a special cafe Alma, where I usually have lunch. Food is tasty and not expensive. There are a lot of supermarkets and shops. It was surprising for me to find a Russian one here, so I always buy there my favorite bread, which I usually eat in Russia! All Belgian cafes offer national fries. It is the tastiest fries I've ever eaten.

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Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Leuven?

I found some offers of accommodation on the official website of KU Leuven and decided to rent a room at the Monsignor Karel Cruysberghs Residence. I filled in the questionnaire directly on the website and a manager from the residence gave me a positive answer in a week.

How much does it cost to live in Leuven?

It depends on your lifestyle. I usually spend about 70 Euro per month for food, so I have enough for my personal expenses, but I can’t say, that Leuven is a cheap city as well.

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

I study international relations and the main aspect of my studying is foreign languages. I continue studying German and French here and decided to take Dutch course. Leuven is located in Dutch-speaking part of Belgium, so after two month of learning I came to use Dutch everywhere, and I didn't have any problems with communication.

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

It is possible to get from Voronezh to Leuven by transit flight Voronezh-Moscow-Brussels and take a bus from Brussels national airport to Leuven. It is the best way of travelling.

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

My residence is located in the centre of Leuven, in two minutes to Oude Markt. There are a lot of pubs and cafes there. ESN organize a lot of night parties for exchange students! We always have a lot of fun!

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

As I have already mentioned I have Lunch at student’s cafe Alma because it is convenient and it is served tasty meal there. By the way my favorite place is Bar Nine, where you can buy delicious food and enjoy pleasant and lovely atmosphere. It is located in Oude Markt.

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What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Leuven is rich in marvelous architecture. Its amazing buildings impress deeply and their Gothic beauty inspires! The city looks like a big museum. I would advice to visit ‘M Museum’, Library of Leuven and a large church in Grote Markt.

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

Try to plunge into the atmosphere of Leuven. Study diligent, but not forget to enjoy this magnificent chance presented to you by destiny!