Erasmus in Paris by Dauphine

Why did you choose to go to Paris?

Paris is incredible in itself, and I wanted to perfect my French, and what better than the Parisian French to do that?

How long did the scholarship last? How much money did you receive?

10 months, 2000 euros in total, which, to live in Paris, is very little. Thanks to the French government, the family allocations gives you about 40% of what the residence costs, which also is a big financial help.

How is student life in Paris?

Although it's a very big city, you find your spots, and there are all different types of people, along with a ton of international students and Spaniards all together.

At least at my university, there are a lot of students from places other than France, and there's always a lot of things to do to go out at night and enjoy yourself.

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

Of course. Paris a great city, although it also depends on whether you're a big city kind of person, or more a a small-town kind of person. Personally, I think it has some of everything, and everywhere you go there are hidden corners to discover, and a great ambience. The university I was at, Paris-Dauphine University, has the advantage of prestige, but along with prestige comes hard work. We'll see how they mark us Erasmus students on finals, they say they mark very hard.

How is the food of the country?

Good, in this way France is very similar to Spain. The crepes, waffles, macarrons, raclettes, fondues, cheeses, in general, are without-a-doubt incredible.

Was it difficult to find accommodation in Paris?

Yes, it is difficult, but not impossible. The best is the CROUS residence, but that was not my case because there are few available places. They give you no specific criteria, it's a little random, so it involves a little bit of luck.

How much does it cost to live in Paris?

The CROUS residence is 300 euro/month approx., a flat's price depends, but in general it's not lower than 500/600 euros, and obviously, if you want a flat in the city centre, from what I've seen, it's more or less 1000 euros of rent.

How is the language? Did you go to any course at the University?

This depends on the person. I arrived with a B2, and I am doing everything in French. To understand is easy, but to study is more difficult, especially Law. It's already complicated to study Law in Spanish, and it is a lot of effort to keep up, but I hope it will be worth the hard work to return home with a good level of French.

They offer free French courses for international students: intensive ones in September and in January, and during the school year, once a week all level. You can choose the level. They're quite good, I highly recommend them.

What is the cheapest way to get to Paris from your city?

Plane or bus, but the latter isn't advisable.

What places do you recommend to go out and party in Paris?

Mix on Thursdays are great, always Erasmus party! Although there are other clubs like Palais Maillot, Duplex, Madame, ShowCase, Wanderlust, it's also worth it to go to the bar zones, like Bastille, Grands Boulevards.

What are you favourite places to eat in Paris?

Without a doubt salty crepes (cookies) in P'tit Grec (Rue Mouffetard); they are cheap and enormous.

Other than that, restaurants are usually expensive, but it's a question of trying. A little while ago I tried Les Fondues de la Raclette on Raspail, and it was also cheap and super good.

Are there cultural sites?

So many.

Any tips that would want to give to future student in Paris?

Go! You won't regret it! I didn't ask for Paris as my first option, but every day I'm more and more happy to have come. It's more than studying, it's an unforgettable experience!