Toño's Erasmus Experience in Modena, Italy

Why did you choose to go to Modena, Italy?

I chose Modena due to the ease of movement around Europe and, above all, to learn a new language, as there were few Erasmus destinations offered in the UK, and, those that were, were very over-subscribed. Also, Italy is the most similar country to Spain, with regards to its customs and traditions, so the change is hardly noticeable.

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How long is the grant for? How much money do you receive as support?

I only receive a grant for 300€ a month for a five-month period, despite being away for the whole year. The grant rates vary based on the region you live in: in my case, the financial support is very little, but it's better than nothing...

What is the student life like in Modena?

Modena is not a city that stands out with regards to university life, but, anyway, a good atmosphere lives and breathes throughout the city.

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

It is a very quiet and small city, almost like a large town of 180, 000 inhabitants, although if you pass through the city centre, you'll find that you have everything you need there.

Was it difficult for you to find accommodation in Modena?

Yes. Flats cost around 250€-300€ per person per month, and as for residences, I would only recommend San Filippo Neri, which is very close to the city centre, has been recently renovated and costs 245€ per month.

How much does it cost to live in Modena?

You can live on 550€-600€ per month, whilst still going out at night 3-4 times a week and not throwing money away on impulse purchases.

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What is the language like? Did you go to any language classes at the university?

The language is quite easy to understand, but being overconfident with it is a mistake. My recommendation is to go to a language class at your home university in Spain to develop a base level of Italian, and from there, everything will be easier. Also, living with Italian people will greatly enhance your learning.

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

From my city, the cheapest option would be to take a flight from Santiago to Valencia (costs around 20€ if booked in advance) or from Valencia to Bologna (20€). The transfer from Bologna Airport to Modena costs 9, 75€.

Which places would you recommend for nightlife in Modena?

- Tuesday: Snoopy [free admission] (small venue, house/techno music, closes at 3am)

- Wednesday: Baluardo [3€ for entrance] (it's closest thing to a nightclub - entrance is expensive the rest of the week, mainly indie music, closes at 3am)

- Thursday: Tube [free entrance with a Tube card that costs 5€ for the whole year] (medium-sized venue, indie and chart music, closes at 4am)

- Friday: the best thing to do on Friday is to rest, or go to Bologna.

- Saturday: Qubo, Bologna [10€ for entrance and 2 drinks] (good nightclub with two rooms with different music, closes at 5am)

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

Eating out in Modena is quite expensive, but you can go for an aperitif in some eateries in the city centre (Juta, Nw Sax Caffé... )

And how about cultural hotspots?

Visit any of the surrounding cities: Bologna, Milan, Verona, Venice, Florence (Firenze)...

Also, take advantage of flights from Bologna (they are very cheap) to destinations such as Poland, the Netherlands, Germany...

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Do you have any advice for future students in Modena?

My recommendations would be:

- Study a little bit of Italian before coming.

- Look at flats upon your arrival here.