Erasmus Experience in Madrid, Spain by Jesse

Why did you choose to go to Madrid, Spain?

My classes that were able to transfer back to my home university were only available at UC3M in Madrid, Spain. I also am able to understand a decent amount of Spanish compared to other languages, as well as I am a big fan of football.

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

The scholarship is $3000 total to do whatever I please for the semester. It can go to living costs, the flight to Madrid, or anything else.

What is the student lifestyle like in Madrid?

The student lifestyle is very relaxed. Students attend class, study a little each day, and they love to hangout with each other and talk over some coffee or alcoholic beverages.

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

I would highly recommended the city and university to other students. Madrid is my favourite city I have been to this far and so it's even better that it is the city I live in.

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What is the food like?

The food is very good. It is mostly bread, meats, cheese, and some seafood resulting in small plates called tapas. They come in smaller portions than the United States but allow people to try all sorts of different kinds of tapas.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Madrid?

Yes, I had no help in finding accommodation from my university. My living costs were up to myself and what I could afford.

How much does it cost to live in Madrid?

Depending on where you decide to live, how big the apartment is, and how many roommates you have makes it costs differently throughout. It is rather affordable if you look farther in advance but a student is able to find housing fairly easily over all.

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

Being around the language helps a lot with learning it. There are courses available to help, but I did not take them. By the end of your experience, you will at least be able to understand what most people are saying to you.

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

By metro/Renfe train. The metro system is very affordable and easy to understand.

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

Madrid offers a lot of nightlife. I would recommend going to "Kapital" at least once while in Madrid. It is a seven story club that offers a different scene on each floor.

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

Ojala, El Rincon, San Miguel Market, el Botin, Lateral, Harina, Taberna Malaspina, Almendro, Bazaar, etc. You can't go wrong with any restaurant you go to.

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What good cultural sites are there to visit?

1. Cathedral
2. Royal Palace,
3. el Retiro,
4. Case de campo,
5. Temple de Debod,
6. Circulo de Bellas artes
7. Sofia museum,
8. Prado museum,
9. Plaza Mayor,
10. Puerta de sol

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

Try and find an apartment in city center as early as possible. Involve yourself with the Erasmus activities and get to know your classmates as they know the ins and outs of everything Madrid. Also, make sure to travel as much as you can. Embrace the culture, language, and people and you will have a blast.

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