Erasmus Experience in Lodz, Poland (By Joana)

Why did you choose to go to Lodz, Poland?

I applied to do an Erasmus exchange because I was looking for an adventure. When I realised that I had the option of going to (almost) any country, I thought "This has to be worth it. If I want to have an adventure... which would be a big one, I have to go far away and somewhere totally different". So this was how I chose Poland as my host country. After having chosen the country, it was easy to choose Lodz. I wanted to escape the clichés of capital cities and so living in Lodz was the ideal option. A relatively big city (the third largest in Poland, after Warsaw and Krakow) and, therefore, appealing. Beyond this, one of my best friends had done Erasmus in the same city and said that it had been the best experience of his life. And it was.

How long does the grant last? How much money do you get for help?

I study in the University of Azores and we have a different grant system. But I know that my friends from Continental Portugal should supposedly get €800 for help, when they get back home.

How is the student environment in Lodz?

The student environment in Lodz is fantastic. We're a real family. The mood created in the middle of it all is simply inexplicable.

Regarding Polish students... they're not very kind or sociable, like the majority of Polish people in general.

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

I would definitely recommend the University of Lodz to other students. It's one of the best universities in terms of teaching and infrastructures in the whole of Poland. The faculties are fantastic.

How is the country's food?

Honestly I haven't tried much of the typical food here. But they are crazy about a type of rissole (but cooked) called pierogis and about potato and mashed potato. They also have lots of giant meatballs.

How easily did you find accommodation in Lodz?

I applied to the University dormitories. But I wouldn't advise it. I only spent one night there and then I looked for another places. They "advertise" dormitory 14, which is the newest and is outside the campus, giving the idea that the conditions are excellent, but this doesn't reflect the majority of the campus dormitories (up until number 13). Some have better conditions than others, but they'll never be as good as those in 14 (which is what they claim). The internet isn't wireless, it's "illegal" to buy modem and the showers/WC are shared by the whole floor, and they're in bad condition. As both my friend and I hated the dormitories we looked for another place. We found the private dormitory Salsa, close to the main road and with excellent conditions. There's a gym, bar, study room, living room and a kitchenette and bathroom in your room. Obviously you have to pay more but I wouldn't exchange the comfort I had for anything. Another solution is getting an apartment. But you'll be lucky to get one, especially one in a good location.

On average, how much did you spend living in Lodz?

€300-400 per month is perfect for living in this city.

How's the language? Did you attend a language course at the university?

I didn't do a language course, at least not a Polish one, at the university. It's very difficult and you're honestly not going to learn it within two weeks of being there. All of my classes were in English.

What is the cheapest way to get to Lodz from your city?

As I'm from the Azores, I had to get a plane to Lisbon. From there I got another plane, a direct one. But some people go to Warsaw and then to Lodz from there.

Where would you recommend for a a night out in Lodz?

Futurysta on Monday, Czekolada on Wednesday, Lordi's onThursday, eScenografia on Friday!... and so many others... There's no lack of nightclubs!; )

And eating out in Lodz? Can you name your favourite places?

Manekin, they have the most delicious pancakes in the world. There are savoury and sweet ones. Solo Pizza, Subway...

And in terms of cultural visits?

There are loads, There's also a teacher who's always sending emails about visits to museums, tickets to events, amongst other things...

Do you have any advice you'd like to give future students in Lodz?

Come, come with an open mind. The first week might be like a horror film, because of the different culture and the fact that no one speaks English (Google translate saved-me, many times! ) You'll feel lost, but afterwards... believe me, you're not going to want to leave here! :)