Erasmus Experience in Lodz, Poland by Saba

Why did you choose to go to Lodz, Poland?

I had chosen Lodz as my top Erasmus preference, mainly because of the University of Lodz which enjoy very good academic reputation not only in Poland but in the World. Also I thought the Poland has a very good location and travelling from there to other countries won't be very difficult and costly.

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

The Scholarship is for one semester. I am getting 300 Euros per month. This amount is enough for covering the basic expenses. However if you want to travel etc, you need to have some other sources of money.

What is the student lifestyle like in Lodz?

Lodz has a number very well reputed universities and therefore it has a big student community. Studies are neither very tough, nor easy. Parties are being arranged almost every other night. And for students they have discounts on numerous things so i think they are enjoying a happy healthy lifestyle.

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

The city itself has not much to offer, there are not so many touristic places, but I would definitely recommend the University. They have very good educational techniques. You don't always have to memorize things and pass the exams, instead most professors encourage presentations, research and projects. I am enrolled in Faculty of Management, all programs are conducted entirely in English, and everyone possess a good command over English.

What is the food like?

Polish food is as diverse as the community is. You can find food from all corners of the world: Indian, Italian, Chinese, Arabic, Thai Cuisine, etc. The Polish traditional food is also very good, the traditional dumplings, donuts, pizza breads and pancakes.

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Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Lodz?

I didn't consult any renting agency to find my place. I took help from Facebook groups for Erasmus students etc. Therefore I didn't pay anything.

How much does it cost to live in Lodz?

I don't drink and party, and I spend maximum a 300 Euros in month and which include everything, all the bills, my rent, transportation, food, going out with friends etc.

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

Polish is a very difficult language to learn except when you have some background in Russian, Ukrainian or the similar languages. But there are numerous short and extensive courses available at the University. However most people know English here so you can survive even without Polish.

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

My journey started from Istanbul. I flew from Istanbul to Budapest where I spent two days and then I took a Polski bus to Warsaw. The air ticket and the bus ticket together costed around 70 Euros.

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

I am not a really party person but most of the people go to Piotrkowska for party. Lordi's Club and Abracadabra are the most famous ones among Erasmus students.

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

I would recommend Zahir Kebab. It has numerous branches. Specially if you are Muslim, they have Halal meat. Zapiekarnia located on Piotrkowska 52. Pozytyvka on Piotrkowska 72. There is also Greenway which is for vegans.

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What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Visit Manufaktura, Piotrkowska, Izrael Poznanki Palace. And if you are interested in museums, there are a lot here.

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

Come with an open mind and a positive attitude. Don't be so quick in judging others and understand that every country has its own culture and values. Your opinions and values might be different from others but be respectful. I think coming to Lodz was the best decision that I could take concerning my Erasmus. I keep writing blogs here on Erasmusu and they also might help you in any confusions you have. If there is any other thing that you would like to ask, feel free to contact me through Facebook or write in the comments here on Erasmusu.

Good Luck.