Erasmus Experience in Padua, Italy. By María

Why did you choose to go to Padua, Italy?

I really wanted to go to Italy - my choice was between either Rome or another city in the northern region. I had to disregard going to Rome because the prices were so high. Finally, a professor at my faculty in Madrid spoke to me about the wonders of the small city of Padua, and that's why I chose it.

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How long did you Erasmus grant last? How much money did you receive?

My Erasmus Grant lasted until July. I didn't receive any grant from the Community of Madrid, only the amount from the European Commission that was 1, 250 euros for the entire year, and they pay me 250 euros when I return. So, this thousand is divided into 9 months, so that leaves 110 euros per month, and therefore... you don't even really have a starting point.

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What is the student lifestyle like in Padua?

So good! In this aspect I am really happy. The city is full of people, and almost all of them are students. There is everything a student could want.

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

Without a doubt, yes I would recommend it. At the start, of course you will have a little bit of Erasmus depression, but once you get used to the city you will be obsessed! It has a lot of charm. The University is really good, and I like it a lot. However, it is a little hard, nobody gives anything to you for free.

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What is the food like in your country?

I love Italian food, but when you spend three months eating pasta every day, you start to rethink it! But it's not that bad. You eat a lot of pasta but it is so good. In terms of the pizzas... the best ones I have tried are from kebab shops, so I still have to keep exploring the pizza topic! But, if you know any, join in with some Italian friends who can cook for you so that you can try real Italian food, like arancini, panzerotti, typical pastas, etc.

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Was it difficult to find accommodation in Padua?

Well, no. I actually applied for residency in the company Esu before arriving and they told me what I was looking for and I was so happy. The environment in the residency is very good and I particularly love mine!

How much does accommodation cost in Padua?

Well... it's expensive. As I said before, I didn't receive much of a grant at all, and this was obvious. Although, I definitely spent a lot in the first two months! I calculated that a normal month, without buying stupidly expensive things, would be about 300-400 euros.

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How is your language? Did you sign up to a course at the Univeristy?

I didn't go to any of the free courses at the University because I missed the sign-up deadline. I did a language level exam in Madrid before I left, and I had prepared for it a little. When I arrived, I joined in with Italians, which I think is the best way to learn. And for writing, I read a lot.

What the most affordable way to get to Padua?

The plane ticket that is the cheapest is the one from Madrid to Bologna, but after that you have to pay for the bus ticket fee to get to the station which is 6 euros, and then the train ticket to Padua which is 9 euros. It becomes more expensive in the end and the trip is quite weighty. The other way is Madrid-Treviso but I have never been that way, I have heard that there is a direct bus to Padua from the airport for 4 euros.

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Where do you recommend going out clubbing in Padua?

I don't go out clubbing that often, but the most frequently visited would be the Fishmarket and Factory. Afterwards, to get something to drink and talk it would be Vizio, among others.

And to eat in Padua? Can you tell us your favourite places?

The Panzerotti places. The chain restaurant Rosso Pomodoro. The pizzeria called Il Duomo. Otium.

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And where to go on a cultural visit?

Padua is so small and you could visit it in a day. It has a lot to see and it is so beautiful, I would recommend visiting over Christmas. They decorate and light up the town to the last detail and there are markets in every corner, where they sell hot chocolate everywhere.

Any advice for future students coming to Padua?

Live the experience to the fullest and enjoy the most of Padua and of Italy! The trains aren't too expensive and the tourism in other cities is great.

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