Erasmus Experience in Paris, France by Belén

Why did you choose to go to Paris, France?

I chose it mainly for the language. I have a pretty good level of English and I need to learn French for what I want to do in the future.

Paris is a huge city, you can hear all possible accents and learn about all the different kinds of traditions and customs from the rest of the country.

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

My grant lasted 9 months and I got around €5, 500.

What is the student lifestyle like in Paris?

If you're in the 5th or 6th arrondissement, you'll find yourself surrounded by students. Although there are universities throughout the entire city, the majority of them are based in these districts. Although, if you want to make French friends, it'll bit a bit more difficult. French students are pretty "shy". It's down to you to make the first move and, for example, talk to the students sitting next to you. Although, they'll give you a hand whenever they can, especially if they see that you're a foreigner.

The universities also have associations. I would really recommend them, because you get to to be in a environment, where not many people know each other and you end up having to speak to new people.

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

Yes and no. The city is incredible and there's always something to do (for free if you're younger than 26).

I don't know if it's just at my university, which has a national reputation for being very difficult (I'm studying law at Panthéon Assas), but don't make the mistake of thinking that they're going to give you any help because you're an Erasmus student. You have to do a lot of work and it's quite difficult to get used to their methodology. But hey, anything is possible.

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What is the food like there?

What can I say about France? Where they so savoury crepes or tartiflette and don't bother with anything else.

And the desserts at the university restaurants at the CROUS... are delicious.

Was it difficult to find accommodation in Paris?

Sweat and blood.

The city is expensive and it's overflowing with people. Ask your university for help, even though they told us they couldn't do anything to help us with accommodation (mine didn't give us any help and I know of people who got into public CROUS residences that way, which cost between €300-450 a month).

A well-priced, well-located flat/studio is extremely difficult to come by. Avoid the north of the city, it's a very bad area. And if you don't care, look on the Paris Diocesis page. they have places that are "non-religious" and that don't put too many limits on you. The prices are excellent, too.

How much does it cost to live in Paris?

You won't get any change from €350 a month, not including accommodation. And if you want to go out partying a bit more and have a bit more freedom... you'll need €450.

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

I didn't go to any courses at the university, but I did have a level of French from school and from practising at home. I achieved a B2 level just before I applied for my Erasmus and I'm not doing too badly here.

Although, I do find it really had to take notes in class.

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

By plane.

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Where would you recommend for a night out in Paris?

Café Oz for Erasmus parties every Wednesday. The Châtelet and rue de Cannettes for pubs, and for clubs L'Aquarium, Mix, and if you want some reggaeton, go to Romeo (on the Boulevard Saint Germain).

And to eat in Paris? What are some of your favourite places to go?

I love O'Tacos, they do tacos in a French style and they're very good.

I couldn't tell you about any other places, because I still haven't felt like spending €30 for the menu of the day.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

The Musée D'Orsay is great, and the city in itself is great if you like architecture. There are museums all over the place, so you don't need to worry about it.

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Do you have any advice for students coming to Paris in the future?

Come with a working mindset, but don't forget to have a good time. There's enough time to balance everything.

If you go to the Opéra early at the weekend soon (at around 7 a. m. ), you can get tickets for €5. And there are also a lot of discounts for students that you can get online.