Erasmus experience in Szeged, Hungary by Miguel

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Why did you choose to go to Szeged, Hungary?

To make a list of destinations, I primarily selected Budapest and in second place, Szeged, as a city in the same country. A friend at my university spoke very highly of Erasmus to me and I accepted the scholarship.

How long did the scholarship last? How much financial support did you receive?

I was there for five and a half months. They gave me 330 euros per month.

What is the student life like there?

It is very good and enjoyable. In terms of academia it is quite interesting and it is not very complicated. The university is focussed on making sure that Erasmus enjoy their stay there. The ESN group works hard putting on parties, events, trips... all kinds of things constantly.

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

Of course. It is not a very well known city but I love it and it is totally orientated towards the Erasmus student. Also, there is a faculty of medicine with foreign students from all over the world, so there is a multitude of students who aren't Hungarian, even though it's not well known.

What is the food like in Hungary?

It is similar to Spanish food: they have stews, meat, salads and other things, however, it is all spicier. Being so cheap you can go to good restaurants that have very good food. On the other hand, there are lots of bars and restaurants that serve fast food like hamburgers, pizzerias, kebabs...

Did you find it difficult to find accommodation in Szeged?

In my case, no. A companion of my faculty was there and had a free room, I went to see the flat and the location and decided that I didn't need to see more. There is no residencies but there is a load of flats and houses, including chalets at a very good price and well located to live, for less than 150 euros.

How much does it cost to live in Szeged?

In my case, I spent 400 euros a month. It is a very cheap city, nearly half if you compare it to Budapest, for example.

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How do you find the language? Did you enrol in a course at the university?

All of the Hungarians that you have a connection with there speak English since nearly all of them study it. I will improve my English a lot due to this reason and because there were not many of us Spanish in comparison to the amount of Erasmus.

What is the cheapest way to travel to Szeged from your home town? >

You have to fly to Budapest. Once you are in the airport there is a direct train to Szeged that takes between 1. 5 and 2h and it cost 14 euros.

Which places do you recommend for going out in Szeged?

Normally Erasmus go to the parties organised by ESN. The most famous clubs were: retro club and one that was in the same rector of the university.

What about eating in Szegred? Can you name your favourite places?

I don't remember the name of the restaurants, they are all by the centre.

What about cultural visits?

The Water Tower, the Cathedral, the wine fairs (very recommendable).

Is there any advice you would like to give to future Erasmus students in Szeged?

If you are unsure about going or not going, it is not a very well known city but it has a great atmosphere. Also, there are lots of sporting activities as well as lots of free time. The climate is bad in winter but good in summer, since they call it the city of light.