Erasmus Experience in Loughborough, United Kingdom

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

I really wanted to do Erasmus in England and Loughborough was the only option I had. Before going I did some research and I learnt that Loughborough University was one of the best in the United Kingdom and had quite a good social life. It also offers lots of activities for Erasmus students and so I decided to go and I don't regret any of it!

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

The grant covers the time you spend on Erasmus. I got about €1700 for the five months. But beyond the Erasmus grants there are also other types of help, for example the Supplementary Erasmus Grant. It doesn't cover all costs but it helps. The only problem is that in the beginning you can't rely too much on the grant because it takes a bit of time to receive it.

What's the student environment like in Loughborough?

The student environment is really really good! Many parties, including a night just for international students, trips to various cities, exhibitions, sports. The student association was considered the best.

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

Although it's a small city, I would recommend it. The city has everything and is close to big cities. It's a 10 minute train journey from Leicester, 30 minutes from Nottingham, 60 minutes from Birmingham and 90 minutes from London.

The public transport works quite well (buses and trains) and the airport is only 20 minutes away.

There are green areas and lots of space to do sport. The university campus is one of the biggest in Europe. The people are all very kind and approachable.

How's the country's food?

Well, England isn't really known for it's food... but it does have some good food, it's all a question of taste!

How did you find accommodation?

I found it through the Internet. I didn't know whether to choose a room in a university residence or one in a private student residence and I ended up choosing the private one because it was newer and had better conditions.

How are the accommodation prices? And the prices in general?

Compared to Portugal the accommodation is expensive but normally all the bills are included. The prices in general vary but I did find cheaper things there. I found meat, fish and this type of food expensive but everything else is cheap. Beauty products, clothes, shoes and everything that's not the essentials is cheaper there.

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

I didn't attend a course. I already knew some English and after being there and being forced to speak English the whole time, it helped me to develop the language. At the beginning the British accent can seem difficult to understand but after a few days it gets easier.

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

I went by Ryanair to London and then got a train. To save lots of money it's worth buying the train ticket in advance. It's very expensive buying it on the day.

Where would you recommend for a night out in Loughborough?

The Student Union, all the students go there. Wednesdays and Fridays are the best nights, all of the building is "open". There are three different "discos", a pub and common spaces.

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In the city, Saturdays are the best. There are lots of pubs worth going to: Phantom, The Orange Tree, Moon and Bell, etc.... After there are clubs: Vodka Revolution, Echos, etc...

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

Moon and Bell, Vodka Rev, Basin... It depends on what you want to eat!

And in terms of cultural visits?

In terms of cultural visits Loughborough has a cinema and sometimes some concerts. The city also has nice things to see.

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

Don't think twice! Loughborough has many Erasmus students. I got so many friends from almost all over the world and I didn't regret having chosen this city for one single moment.