An Interview With an Erasmus Student About Salamanca

I interviewed one of my friends to share with us her Erasmus experience abroad in Salamanca. She was studying Translation and Interpretation at the time.

What steps did you take in order to get a grant?

I don't remember really. I think my home university took care of all that, we just had to register with the host university.

Are they worth it?

I received a grant of between 800 and 1000 euros, so yes, it's always worth it!

What did you think about the university? The lessons? The timetable?

Great! The timetables are a lot more relaxed compared to those at Marie Haps, my home university in Brussels and the teachers were a lot less demanding too- I only had five lessons a week. There was one lesson called 'comunicación en la lengua española' which really appealed to me because it was outside the 'traditional' styled lessons that I'm used to, it was really great.

What did you think about your work? Your timetable? The amount of grant you received?

I didn't really have to work. I'd say that the main purpose of Erasmus is to soak up the culture and to speak with as many people as you can in Spanish. I was happy with the bursary, which was paid in 3 instalments, as 900 euros is a good amount for Spain.

Would you recommend the bursary to other students who want to go to Spain?

Of course! ¡Por supesto!

What did you think of the town?

Wonderful! Salamanca is just one big open-roof museum, I love it.

How did you find your accommodation?

Either by reading adverts in phone boxes, or by reading the listings put up on the university website- I can't remember anymore.

What is your favourite memory?

Meeting other people from different cultures.

What did you think about the weather?

It was less rainy than Belgium, but the winter of 2008/2009 had been particularly harsh in the north of Spain that year.

And what about the food?

Delicious! I dream of tapas every day, the patatas bravas, the calamari, the empanadas... But seriously, I love the concept of snacking.

What about the price?

Really, really reasonable although we spent more than we would have done in Belgium, but only because we went out a lot more!

What about the culture?

I love their welcoming personality and the fact that they want to enjoy life.

What about the people in general?

They're super nice and always prepared to help you, but sometimes they're a little bit loud!

Did you visit any other cities or go on any trips?

Yes, quite a few villages in the area around San Sebastián, Madrid and Seville.

What was the most beautiful thing you saw?

The view of the oceans and mountains at San Sebastián is stunning. The Royal Alcázar and Plaza de España are amazing too.

Is it easy to get to Salamanca from Belgium by plane?

Yes, you can fly from Charleroi to Valladolid then get the bus to Salamanca. The bus companies travel pretty much all over Spain.

What advice would you give to any future students?

Make the most of it, don't get too caught up in it all, and immerse yourself in the culture!