Erasmus Experience in Perugia (Italy) of Andrés

Why did you choose to go to Perugia, Italia?

I chose Perugia because it is one of the cheapest cities in terms of cost of living, as well as because of the prestige of the University of Foreigners of Perugia.

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

My scholarship lasted six months and I received around two thousand euros with the Erasmus scholarship for also being a grant holder of the department.

What is the student lifestyle like in Perugia?

The student lifestyle is big as such, since the city is so small and there are two different universities which makes the university an important and key part. However, the vast majority of students don't agree with the free flowing university life.

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

No, at least in general terms. If what you are looking for is a small and pretty city where nearly every day you will meet people you know on the street, then yes. If what you want is life experience in a european country that allows you to travel, live the student lifestyle and experience new things, then no.

In terms of the university, I can give you my opinion about the University of Foreigners of Perugia: if you study Italian language and literature in Spain, then it is the place for you. If you study any other linguistics or a degree in the area of communication, you will find a lot of short comings (not to speak of everything that relates to management and organisation as the same).

What is the food like?

Italian gastronomy is known only too well for it's quality. In Perugia there are typical dishes made with truffle, red wine and sausage.

On the other hand you have to take into account that to have access to a supermarket with more or less economic prices and with a somewhat wide selection of products, you will have to resort to supermarkets that are outside of the center, by taking a short hike or using public transport.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Perugia?

I wanted to live with Italian students to have the most linguistic immersion but my mistake was doing this through FB. On arrival in Perugia, I had quite a few problems with the landlord and half way through my stay I had to change apartments. I reccomend doing it through an estate agency once you arrive in Perugia.

You have to take into account the initial cost which is usually: two months deposit, the price of one months rent when you move in and depending on the agency, one more months rent for commission.

How much does it cost to live in Perugia?

The rent is around 250 euros per month for a room. That, plus bills (water, electricity, gas, food, nights out, trips... ), around 450/500 euro per month.

Is the language easy to get to grips with?

Are there language courses available at the university?

In my case, I had been studying some Italian before starting the Erasmus, so for me it was quite easy to become fluent.

University of Foreigners of Perugia offers language and Italian culture courses monthly or every term for free for Erasmus students. I took a level C1 course and in my opinion, it left a lot to be desired.

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

A flight from Madrid to Rome and then a train (3hours) or a bus (2/3hours) to Perugia for 10 euros.

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

If you like nightclubs, there are several: Cantiere, Vanilla, Urban (commercial music), 110 (rock), etc. For the first time you need take a free bus to the city center.

If you are more in to pubs or bars: Luna Bar (a busy pub for Erasmus students with commercial music) or some bars on the street called "Via della viola".

Is it good to eat out in Perugia? Can you recommend some good restaurants in Nottingham?

If you come to Perugia you cannot not go out for pizza in La Romántica (probably the best that I have ever had in my life). Although, other pizzerias such as La Mediterránea or La Botte (very popular with students for their pizzas which are 3. 50 to take away) are good options.

What advice would you give future students heading to Perugia?

For the best Erasmus experience, it is not about the city, it is about the people that you meet there. Go open to everything and everyone, meet all the people possible and enjoy it as much as you can, it only happens once.

Source