Erasmus Experience in Padova, Italy by Diana

Why did you choose to go to Padova, Italy?

I chose Padova because I'm doing the PhD in Chemistry and here there is a research group that works in the same topic than I. Moreover, Italy sounded very nice when I was searching for a place in Europe. I don't regret my choice!

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

I will be here for 6 months, until 30th April. I received 1500 euro per month.

What is the student lifestyle like in Padova?

Here the student lifestyle is really great! It's very nice. I live in a residence with other students from Italy and other countries, not only from Europe. We are sharing many experiences, we learn different languages, we share the food. We learn new things all the time. Padova is a university city, so it is prepared to host students. I recommend to live in a residence, so the interchange of cultures and other things are better. Here in Padova there are many parties and the clubs are open on Wednesday's night. So if you want to celebrate or simply go out at the middle of week, you can. Is really nice.

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

Yes, I recommend Padova. It is a student's city. It is a beautiful city full of history and it has a weird charm, I fall in love with Padova. People are very kind and they try to make you feel like in home. Padova is nearby many towns and other cities, like Venice, Milan, Florence. So is a strategic point if you want to travel so much.

What is the food like?

The food is very nice, but it is no varied. There are many kinds of pizza, sandwiches and pasta, but I miss other kinds of food.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Padova?

No, because the University offered me the accommodation in the residence. But it is a little difficult to obtain accommodation in a private place if you stay here less than 1 year.

How much does it cost to live in Padova?

I heard that Padova is more expensive than other cities, like all the north of Italy. But anyway is cheap for me because in Argentina the money has not this value.

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

Yes, there are many language courses, so don't worry. I'm from Argentina so the language is not a problem for me because Spanish and Italian are similar. If I talk slow they can understand me and vice versa. But I'm using normally English in my work place.

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

In Padova the most usual way to move around the city is by bike. If you are in Padova you must buy a bike. Bikes are cheaper, and the city is prepared for bikes. It's really nice, because it is very cheap (in fact is free), you are training and you can reach almost all places in the historic center, the University and around.

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

There are many "trattorie", pizzerie and restaurants. The food is good in all. I love "Soul Kitchen". The hamburgers there are the best!

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

If you enjoy the student lifestyle but you like small cities, come to Padova! It is calm but funny and very "cosmopolitan". I don't regret to have chosen Padova. I love this city.

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