Erasmus experience in Salerno, Italy by Oscar

Why did you choose to go to Salerno, Italy?

I chose Salerno mainly because I thought that there was going to be good weather and good beaches nearby, in addition I did not fancy a big city like Rome or Milan.

Source

How long does the grant last? How much money do you receive as help?

The grant theoretically lasts 10 months, of which I haven’t seen it last, I sincerely believe that things being as they are you receive just €100 per month.

How is the student environment in Salerno?

Salerno is Erasmus, honestly at the university “of Salerno” there are not many people actually from Salerno. It is in Fisciano, 35 minutes away from Salerno by bus and there are people from all over the area, lots of people from Napoli etc.

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

Yes of course, I loved the city. In addition, you can take a ferry or a bus and see lots of towns and cities on the coast that are worthwhile to visit.

The only problem about the university is that you have to go by bus, etc. But as a university it is good. The best place is menza where for €3 you can eat very well.

How is the country’s food?

Its Italy what do you expect? Pasta and pizza everywhere. As for meats in general I think it is worse and above all more expensive than in Spain.

Was it hard finding accommodation in Salerno?

No not at all. Honestly I arrived in Salerno with my suitcases and a week booked in a hostel. But thanks to ESN Salerno you can find a house very quickly. Truly the help from this organisation, especially at the start of the Erasmus, is fundamental.

How much does it cost to live in Salerno?

It all depends on the person. If you want to have a good Erasmus experience you will party, drink, travel, in the end spend a lot of money. But if you only want to live in Salerno and study my house cost €220 per person plus expenses, but all together €300 per month. Then calculate what you spend on food.

How’s it going with the language? Did you attend a course at the university?

I arrived with no Italian. I attended a little A1 course at the university but it lasted two weeks. You learn by speaking to people.

What is the cheapest way to arrive at Salerno from your city?

Plane to Rome and from there a train to Salerno. If you are lucky enough to live near Barcelona you can get a flight to Naples and then from there a bus or train to Salerno.

What places would you recommend going to at night in Salerno?

Party in Salerno, Thursdays at Teatro Vitoria and then ESN organise your life in regards to the party.

And to eat in Salerno? Can you recommend your favourite sites?

Sant Andrea, a small bar with sandwiches and pizzas, very cheap both to eat and to drink;)

And what cultural places are there to visit?

At Christmas time it is full of lights, the truth is that walking down the streets, the seafront and the old part of Salerno is very beautiful. The castle for the rest of the year.

Any advice you would like to give to future students in Salerno?

Save money during these months so you can use it to arrive and to be able to spend, on both parties and travels. In all seriousness if you have any concern for the city forget about it. Salerno is great, I would repeat it.

For any doubts, Oscar Pereda