Francesco's Erasmus Experience in Nimega, the Netherlands

Why did you decide to go to Nimega, Netherlands?

I wanted to get to know a different culture to the Mediterranean one I grew up in.

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How long did the placement last? How much money did you receive as help?

The scholarship last year was 230 euros, but it changes every year depending on the university's budget.

What is the student lifestyle like in Nimega?

Wonderful. The city lives around the campus.

Would you recommend the city and university of Nimega to other students?

Strongly.

What is the country's food like?

Coming from a country like Italy where food is an important part of the culture, going shopping in a Dutch supermarket definitely has a certain impact, but you can get used to it easily. Getting to know the food is a way to understand the culture.

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Was it difficult to find accommodation in Nimega?

Radboud University is really organised, I didn't have to do anything. The city is full of dorms.

What is the cost of living like in Nimega?

Similar to in an Italian city, but a little bit lower.

How is the language? Did you attend any university courses?

Personally, after 6 months I haven't learnt a word of Dutch, so I wouldn't know. But that is because everyone speaks perfect English and the majority of the courses are held in English. I attended classes and, after the first weeks and a lot of headaches, I got used to following lessons in English.

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

Mijmegen is in a triangle between the Dusseldorf, Eindhoven and Amsterdam airports. Wherever you fly in to it is easy to find a train to get to the city.

Where to you suggest for a night out in Nimega?

All the little pubs in Moolstratt, the city's main street. Almost everyone goes there.

And for food in Nimega? Can you tell us some of your favourite places?

I never went to a restaurant, I just ate with friends in the dorms.

And cultural places to visit?

The classic cities: Den Haag, Amsterdam, Utrecht, Maastricht e Madurodamn (where there is a Miniature Holland).

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Do you have any advice for future Nimega students?

Go there, you'll have fun.