Erasmus Experience in Paderborn, Germany by Ilona

Why did you choose to go to Paderborn, Germany?

I chose Paderborn because they gave me the opportunity to study in English and also improve my German knowledge. Paderborn is in Nordrhein-Westfalen, where there are a lot of nice places to discover such as Cologne or Bonn.

Source

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

The scholarship was for 5 month and I received 2000 €.

What is the student lifestyle like in Paderborn?

International students are very close to each other and there are always house parties or trips. There is a special organization of native students, Eurobiz, which usually create events for international students.

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

Definitely! It's a great place!

What is the food like?

For people who usually eat spicy meals German food is a bit tasteless, but the canteen (Mensa) is very cheap and there are some very cool döner bars!

Source

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Paderborn?

No, the international office helped me for free.

How much does it cost to live in Paderborn?

The dorm costs 245 €. The food and services are more expensive than in eastern Europe but compare to the Netherlands England or even Bavaria, it is cheap.

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

German is not easy but there are lot of opportunities such as Tandem program, crash course, afternoon course or DSH course which are very useful.

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

Travelling by plane to Dortmund and then by train to Paderborn.

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

Eurobiz events are really great. I recommend,

• Globetrotter, if you want to drink something.
• Auld Triangle, for karaoke.
• Savoy or Sappho, if you want to dance.

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

Can is a very good kebab/grill restaurant and Bar Celona is also a very good place.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Münster is one of the most beautiful places in Nordrhein-Westfalen. I also recommend Düsseldorf and Cologne.

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

If you need any help feel free to ask your Buddy or the Erasmus coordinator, Ms Brebeck.