Erasmus Experience in Maastricht, Netherlands by Emilio

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Why did you choose to go to Maastricht, Netherlands?

I chose Maastricht because the Law faculty has a very good reputation in Moot Courts and because there is a very prestigious professor that gives class there. Also, a former professor told me that the Master Program was, and I quote, a "very good choice. "

Because I am a licensed lawyer, I was not able to participate. However, I was an assistant coach of UM's team that participated in the ELSA Moot Court Competition organized by WTO (2014-2015). The team won the regional round and afterwards participated in the international round.

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

My master program, Globalisation and Law, was a one year program. If you are a non-EU citizen you need about 13, 500€, plus the money required to live in the Netherlands. I received a student loan and a scholarship of my country that supported my studies.

What is the student lifestyle like in Maastricht?

The Master program requires a lot of time, since it is divided by periods. In other words, in about two months you will study 2 courses, so you have to constantly study and do homework.

I rarely participated in student activities. Nevertheless, there are sports, conferences and activities organized every week, except on exam week. I played soccer at the beginning but I got injured, the football association (guys and girls) is pretty cool.

You will find people from around the world. I had a lot of fun with my classmates.

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

The city is great for students. You have Carnival, the Christmas Market, and many other events that takes place in the city center or Vritofj. Also, I enjoyed going out in Maastricht, though I have to say that is a small place and you will always go to the same places, if you are a party lover, such as the Alla and Fest Fabric.

What is the food like?

Food? I have no idea what dutch food is like.... There are fries, which you can eat in the Market. Apart from that, everything is very western in the supermarket.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Maastricht?

Yes! It was the most difficult thing ever! The Agencies are so abusive because you have to pay an agency fee. In the end I was paying about 360-380€ per month for my room

I found mine through a Facebook group. I found a comfy small room for one year in an amazing apartment with three cool girls. I was very lucky.

How much does it cost to live in Maastricht?

You can live pretty good with about 900€. If you live near an Aldi you will lower your food expenses.

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

It is very weird that a Dutch doesn't speak English.

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

My city is in Mexico, there is no cheap way to arrive to Maastricht.

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

There are many pubs. In Stationstraat you can find a couple of bars, and near the Virtofj too.

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

Café Sjiek is very good, ate there once. In Cato Cato you can find really cheap food, and it is really good. Both are near the library.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

You have the caves in st. Peter, the highest hill (mountain for the dutch), and the city center, I enjoyed walking there.

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

Take advantage of the library and the e-journals. It is amazing.

Buy a good, but not expensive, bike. It is worth it.

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