Parisian memories

Why did you choose to go to Paris, France?

I knew the language that is not so common in the Czech Republic. It was therefore easy to be accepted. And in addition it was my dream to live in Paris!

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

Well, originally I went to Paris for 1-year Erasmus exchange. However, I decided to stay there for my Master studies. I applied, I was accepted and finally spent there 3 more years.

For the Erasmus, I had a scholarship about 495 Eur per month. It didn't pay even the rent (that is very high in Paris), but it helped. For the rest, I was on my own, without any help.

What is the student lifestyle like in Paris?

Hmm... The good thing is that there are many foreigners in Paris, so you meet many people from all over the world and make very strong friendship. During the Erasmus, you have also lots of time to go out, to visit and party together, Paris is very culturally animated.

However, to be a normal student means a lot more work, less time and a lot of stress. For the first semester of Master, we were overwhelmed by written assignments. In addition, Parisians are not so opened, so it is difficult to make friends. But there are still those foreigners, hopefully!

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

I am not sure. I would recommend it because it is an experience that pays off in the life. But I think there are better places where to go for an exchange that are more friendly and cool.

Was it difficult to find your accommodation in Paris?

Yes, very difficult. It is, next to all the bureaucracy at the University, the most difficult thing to do. The demand overpasses the offer and there are literally queues for a small room, 10 metres square, without windows. It is terrible.

In addition, the owners ask for many documents - next to your passport and University acceptance, they need to see the salary of your parents, their passports, they tax return, etc. Sometimes, they also ask for a French "garant" - someone French that will pay in the case you won't do it...

The best thing how to find an accommodation is to "inherit" the lease of some friend or another Erasmus student that is leaving. It is important to search really in advance, ideally while being "on place".

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

No, as I knew it already. However, I really improved my language there - as there were almost no Czech people, I really had to use French all the time. In addition, French don't speak much English, so only French is possible.

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

It is interesting, but it was the plane. The bus costs almost the same price!

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

• Try to ensure your housing before the school starts.
• Enjoy all the cultural activities that Paris offer - cinemas, concerts, museums...
• Go eat their great "crêpes" - Chez Nicos at rue Mouffetard has the best ones.
• Go to the food markets - sometimes there are very low prizes for food.
• Try the Lebanese street food - Chez le Libanais is the best one!
• Keep buying the most delicious wine from Alsace for 4 Euros at Franprix.
• Do picnics during the summer at the parks and riverfronts.
• Keep buying all those delicious fresh baguettes and tasty desserts from bakeries. They are sooo good!