Erasmus Experience in York, United Kingdom by Yuliia

Why did you choose to go to York, United Kingdom?

When I got to choose among cities to come and study at, York immediately caught my attention for a number of reasons. First of all, it is a quintessentially British city, with old town part, parks and a river, astonishing cathedral and a vibrant life. Secondly, I read that York was numerously voted the best city to live in Britain, and its natural landscape was marvelous. It had a lot to offer and I jumped at the opportunity immediately!

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

My scholarship is two years long. I am doing my postgrad degree. My monthly allowance is 1000 euro plus travel expenses.

What is the student lifestyle like in York?

The student lifestyle in the University of York is quite intense. In fact, students keep spending lots of their time not just studying, but also worrying about their assignments and exams. But I have to admit, there are a lot of activities, provided by the university to help us vent emotions and maintain mental health.

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

Absolutely! The University of York is a member of a prestigious Russel Group Universities. It has a great campus, fabulous members of stuff and professors, I utterly enjoyed my time here.

What is the food like?

You can choose whatever you like here in York. As a student you can occasionally treat yourself with some nice food (there are lots of cafes and restaurants in the city), however, if you are on a budget you can also find some nice quality food in the local supermarkets (I would recommend Aldi as a place with the most reasonable prices ever).

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in York?

It was not difficult, because I live in the accommodation, recommended by the university. My partner and I live in the couple accommodation, which is an unfurnished bungalow, so we had to buy some things too, which we now have to sell. However, the prices are high, and you have to pay for the entire year, which skyrocket the price obviously. Apart from that, the location is great, and the neighborhood is quite pleasant.

How much does it cost to live in York?

Let’s see. I pay 530 pounds sterling for my accommodation plus bills plus food and entertainment, top-up for laundry, internet (buy the way, it is expensive in here), etc. So, overall it is around 800-900 pounds per month depending on your needs of course.

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

The language is great, you won’t be taken aback by a strong accent or anything, in fact, you might pick up a few useful words along the way, talking to natives. I love it! And yes, the University offers language courses, some year- long ones (I had my Spanish course, for instance) or a fortnight course (which is free for those students, who are going abroad), the range of languages on offer is great. The language courses portal is called LFA, check it out if you are interested.

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

I mostly do walking, but coaches circulate perfectly fine to my taste.

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

First, just stroll around the old town, it’s beautiful, then if you are into dancing you might wanna try Bora-Bora. They say that there is a new place to go every day of the year, so you can see for yourself…

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

Cut and Craft – good if you like steaks (my partner used to work there as a chef)
Betty’s – quite expensive but might be an indulgent way to while away the time and try an ultimate British tradition – an afternoon tea.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

York Minster (you won’t miss it, it really dominates the city)
Shambles street
Railway museum (it is free, which is a nice bonus)
York City Walls (will give the most astonishing views)
Visit Millennium Bridge (take some food, the park there is wonderful, so you can do a little picnic)

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

Oh, do not miss out! Enjoy this place, because it is worth it!