Erasmus Experience in Madrid, Spain by Anas

Why did you choose to go to Madrid, Spain?

Studying a semester in Madrid had already been in the schedule of my postgraduate program but if I would be having an option, I would have chosen it too. The old heritage and culture of this city with vast population and area has made this city one of the favorite destination to visit. For me, being a football fan, it was like a dream coming true to experience the life on the land of Real Madrid.

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

Preferred not to answer.

What is the student lifestyle like in Madrid?

Students' lifestyle is comparatively different than my country.But facing new challenges make you grow in more diversified manner.These challenges are mandatory to make your nature adaptive and flexible.
In terms of competition, the environment is healthy so if you are concerned and persistent, you will get the plenty of opportunities.
Teachers and University has always been supportive and I really Appreciate the locals for their friendly and helpful gesture which motivates the international students a lot.

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

Yes, I would definitely recommend the city to other students because apart from good education and nurturing, you can get the chance to experience Spanish Culture. And since it is one of the biggest city of EU, you can also get the chance to interact with other international students.
In case if you are a party lover, Madrid won't let you down.

What is the food like?

Being a food lover, Madrid provides plenty of options coming from different culture with amazing tastes.
Being a Muslim, we usually have this concept of eating Halal Meat but in Madrid there are number of restaurants offering this facility.
For me, though I prefer cooking my traditional food at home mostly but trying new food almost every weekend is something I cannot avoid.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Madrid?

Since I am living with my Family relatives so I didn't have this issue.

How much does it cost to live in Madrid?

It actually depends on the person. You can find varied pricing for accommodation (which in most cases is the biggest cost incurred) depending on facilities and locations.
Same goes with food and other leisure expenses.
Mobile Bills, Transport and such related things are really cheap in Madrid.
Expenses can range from 200 Euros to as much as you want to spend.

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

Yes, university offers a basic Spanish language courses which definitely helps a person to get a biter insight to communicate. In Madrid, you can find most of the people speaking English so the problem is not big and rest you can learn and understand from body language.

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

Air Flight

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

Well there are plenty of places in Madrid to enjoy nightlife. But most of the people prefer going to Sol as it has number of pubs and clubs. Rest there are many activities going around Madrid so you can join them and being an Erasmus student, you can get discounts.

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

Well there are plenty of restaurants offering traditional food from all over the world. So I would recommend to use some food blogging sites to get the list of restaurants providing your preferred food.
Don't worry, you won't die hungry here....

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

From museums to parks to old heritage there are number of places in Madrid to be visited.

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

Not only to Madrid but to all the students going abroad for studies, I would advice to maintain the balance between everything. Get the most out of your experience. This is the best chance to learn and groom you personality by exposing yourself to different culture and people. Not only academically but socially as well. But don't sacrifice your studies by getting involved in useless activities. Everything is good when done in limits.
One more thing, when you come abroad for studies, you are representing your family, your country, your culture and every other thing. Just be nice, polite, optimistic and honest instead creating a bad image of your culture and country.

Rest I would wish the best for all of you.