Erasmus Experience in Reading, United Kingdom by Vanessa

Why did you choose to go to Reading, United Kingdom?

I chose Reading because I wanted to live in a small city where you can walk anywhere but at the same time close to London. Reading is a modern city with nightlife during the week, there are many international students and the big shopping centre is full of shops and restaurants where you can easily get a part-time job to get some money. A perfect place to live a good experience improving your English.

I heard about Reading before because of the famous music festival and I knew someone who was living there for some years and recommended me to go.

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

One year.

What is the student lifestyle like in Reading?

The student lifestyle is like everywhere: when you have a group of friends there are plenty of things to do together!

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

Absolutely!

What is the food like?

I don't like the English food in general but it's possible to buy everything you need in the supermarkets and cook your own meals.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Reading?

Yes, it was a bit complicated since I wanted to share with other students in a house situated in the downtown. I think it took me around one week to find the accommodation but it was exactly the place I was looking for.

How much does it cost to live in Reading?

I was there two years ago and I cant remember well, it depends on what you pay for the rent. But it was not so expensive to live there.

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

Yes, English is easy and people are very nice there, if you have some troubles to understand them they do their best to try to help you.

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

From Spain to London there are several low cost companies that offer good prices to fly there. From London to Reading the best option is the train.

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

I don't remember the names of the clubs but they play different music styles so it's easy to find your favourite one.

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

The Oracle Mall is full of very good international restaurants.

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

Every experience abroad is something great, so discover it by yourself and live your own fantastic experience in Reading!