Erasmus Experience in Vantaa, Finland by Antonio

Why did you choose to go to Vantaa, Finland?

I was dreaming about Finland since I was 11 yrs old! So I have realized a dream of mine!

I anticipated the beautiful Finnish landscape, in which Nature reigns above humans. And it was exactly like this!

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

I stayed in Erasmus for a semester, (actually 5 months) and it has been the best period of my life.

I received more or less 250/300€ per month. It wasn't enough to pay my room (I paid 391€ per month of rent, including expenses), but it has been a great help!

What is the student lifestyle like in Vantaa?

Student lifestyle in Vantaa is a special life. Actually I stayed in Espoo, attending courses in Leppävaara University. Their timetable is completely different from Italian one! For example you have lunch from 10. 30AM to 12. 30AM! After going to University, you can go to Supermarkets or in Library, in which you can stay in a peaceful atmosphere and, if you are a musician as me, you can play piano!

I enjoyed my life there in the best way. I'm so happy about it!

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

Absolutely YES! I have lived in Espoo and I spent a lot of time in Helsinki. Espoo hasn't a real center (Espoo Keskus), but you can reach Helsinki in 15 minutes.

A nice city, with a special landscape. Parks and monuments next to the harbour.

I liked it very much, from winter (when everything was snowy) to summer (when there were beautiful lakes in the middle of the town).

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What is the food like?

Food is not so bad, but I'm too habit to Italian food! :D

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Vantaa?

No! I have used HOAS help, and everything has been PERFECT!

Clear in prices, in included/excluded expenses, location.

All the information before departure: GREAT!

How much does it cost to live in Vantaa?

Totally, for 5 months, 4000€, including everything!

A great experience!

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

Finnish people speak English in a "strict" way! I have attended only English courses!

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

I didn't go to Vantaa, but to Leppavaara.

There were comfortable trains from Espoo to Leppävaara.

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

There are many pubs and night clubs to visit!

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

I don't remember any names unfortunately!

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Sibelius Park, churches, Suomenlinna Island! AND LAPLAND!

GO TO INARI! Vasatokka resort!

Organized trips for students are very special!

6 days with only 350€ to go from Helsinki to Inari! With many activites.. I recommend you all to go there!

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

ENJOY THE BEST EXPERIENCE OF YOUR LIFE!

HOPING FOR YOU TO SEE NORTHERN LIGHTS IN LAPLAND: the most amazing sight in my entire life!

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