Erasmus Experience in Paris, France by Gillian

Why did you choose to go to Paris, France?

I'm in love with its history and art. It is world-famous, and there's a mix of culture that allows people to become even more open minded about diversity.

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

The scholarship I receive is 5 months long. I receive 250€ per month + an extra scholarship from my home university.

What is the student lifestyle like in Paris?

It's amazing. You get to meet a lot of people and eventually you'll find out that Paris is home to a lot of exchange students, not just in Europe.

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

Absolutely yes.

What is the food like?

Coming from Italy, I had a few difficulties to adjust in the beginning. Especially for the high price. But I got used to it.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Paris?

I have a friend here who helped me to find an accommodation. I recommend you to search in advance because I know it is really hard for students to find an accommodation in Paris.

How much does it cost to live in Paris?

A lot! I pay 600€ for the rent and 400 to 500€ for groceries and food and transportation.

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

I studied french for 8 years, and as soon as I got here I knew the language was different from what I studied. The accent is different, people speak fast, and there's a lot of youth expressions you'll eventually learn. For example, "Je kiff" means "I like"!

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

By train definitely. Hassle free, and no need to pay for a luggage check in.

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

I'm not a party person, but there's a lot of night events being organized for exchange students. Just check on facebook!

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

In Pyramides area for asian food. You'll find a lot of chinese, korean and japanese restaurants around that area. There's also Saint Michel area near Cluny La Sorbonne metro station if you want typical french food. Another area I like to go to is Marcel Sembat for cheap fast food.

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What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Too many. Arc de Triomphe, Louvre, Musée d'Orsay, la Conciergerie, Pantheon, Versailles, La Grande Mosquée, musée Rodin, Centre Pompidou, Sacre coeur.

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

Work in advance, set some money aside, and learn the language, at least the basic grammar, before coming here!