Defining Erasmus Moments in Barcelona, Spain by Seun

Why did you choose to go to Barcelona, Spain?

I have always wanted to have an experience studying abroad because I had read some articles on the internet that it is a life changing experience. Also, while surfing the internet some months back I discovered the Erasmus programme and I put in an application for the Erasmus Mundus Masters Scholarship, I later got into the programme with the Erasmus+ scholarship. My first university, UAB, was in Barcelona and so for the first time I travelled from my country, Nigeria to come to Barcelona for my Erasmus programme.

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

The scholarship last for 24 months and that is the duration of the programme. I get 1000 euros to help with the living costs. But in some Erasmus programme you may get less money. So, it actually depends on needs and if you are a spend drift you will definitely need more than the Erasmus scholarship to survive in Barcelona.

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What is the student lifestyle like in Barcelona?

Barcelona, I must say is a very international destination. You find students from all over the world. The student lifestyle varies, you find students from the party addicts, to students that are geeks, the religious ones etc. In sum, student lifestyle in Barcelona is not stereotyped in nature but very diverse.

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

I will most definitely recommend Barcelona to other students. One of the Erasmus defining moments in Barcelona for me is the appreciation and knowledge of different cultures and values I have experienced as a student. The university is very good, amazing professors, facilities, student activities, etc. The university is also ranked best in Spain, so I strongly recommend.

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What is the food like?

The food here is different from the ones I am used to, they eat a lot of Tapas here. I prefer hot spicy food. I am sure one will find dishes from all over the world in Barcelona.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Barcelona?

No, it did not cost me to find accommodation in Barcelona. I got a space through the school hostel, so it is very easy to get a housing through your university. The accommodation prices ranges from 300 - 450 euros. But if you find a private accommodation in the city, it could be cheaper. I actually recommend that you look out for private accomodation before considering staying in the school hostel.

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How much does it cost to live in Barcelona?

The cost of living in Barcelona depends on the student lifestyle and accommodation. If you are the party freak, you may spend monthly between 600 - 800 euros, if you eat a lot in the restaurants, 800 -1000 euros and of course if you love shopping, you will certainly need more money.

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

In Barcelona, they have two languages, Catalan and Spanish. For me I think Spanish is easier to learn and understand because almost everyone in Barcelona speaks Spanish. The university offers language courses in Spanish and Catalan. Catalan is free to learn for international students.

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

My city Lagos, Nigeria, the easiest way to travel to Barcelona is by plane. It is less than 7 hours to fly.

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

The city of Barcelona is ever busy with parties, events and the city is club and bar hub itself because almost every day of the week there is always an event going on somewhere in the city. At night, I recommend you explore as many places as possible because you will find something very interesting.

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

It is very expensive eating outside and there are so many wonderful restaurants you can choose to eat. So explore as many restaurants as you can, it is an experience worth having. But if you are a student, I advise you use the student cafeterias, it is quite cheap, you can get a complete meal for 6 euros or less.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Must see cultural sites are the great architect, Antonio Gaudì's works and the historical museums. Also, you should visit the beach. Barcelona is a great blend of history and modernity, it makes the city an 'utopic paradise'.

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

Set your mind on what you want to achieve before coming to Barcelona, there are lots of distractions here. Be open minded and get soaked in a multicultural environment. Finally, enjoy your stay and experience in Barcelona!

Salud!