Nuria Sanchez is a Spanish Erasmus student from Salamanka. I have known her from the beginning, because we had the Dutch course in the first month in the same group.
Why did you choose Antwerp for your Erasmus period?
"I wanted to apply for an Erasmus scholarship, and I prefered going to a place where people speak English, since I wanted to improve this language. For public relations students Antwerp was the only choice with English lessons, so I came here."
What did you like most about Plantijn Hogeschool?
"Mmm…the cute guys?? Hehehe… Well I like the classes we are following and the way teachers explain the lessons. Of course they explain theory but we also have to several practical assignements, and I find this very interesting."
Was the Plantijn different from your home university?
"Actually is not very different. My home university is also situated in a modern building, with lots of facilities such as computers, library….one thing that draw my attention was the student’s clubs, who prepare activities and put loud music while everybody is in class!! But is funny, it seems we are in the disco."
How could you describe Antwerp in few sentences?
"I think Antwerp is a multicultural city, with very different people and lifestyles. Even you can see these differences as you walk on the street. Modern buildings in the south; gothic style in the centre; and old houses and small jewellery in the Jewish district."
What do you think about the Belgian people?
"I think Belgian people are very polite, and they are willing to help anyone. I find them hard workers (specially when I see workmen repairing the streets at 4 o´clock in the morning, just when I go home after party… )"
Would you suggest for a foreign student to come to Antwerp as an Erasmus student? Why?
"I have had a really good time here so I would recommend it to everyone. It´s an experience and Belgium is the centre of Europe, so you can travel very easily not only in Belgium but also to other European countries."
What was the most difficult moment during the 4 month?
"I think the most difficult moment here were the first two weeks: new place, different people, the weather, the rhythm of life…very different from Spain. In addition I didn’t have computer at that time, and my mp3 player didn’t work, so no music, no chat, …really boring."
If you would have possibility, what would you do in a different way?
"I think I would have lived each day more intensively, but doing same things. And I would have rent a bike…I’m afraid that now is too late and too cold for that." ´
The 3 most important thing you suggest for the future Erasmus students:
"- live each day as if it was the last one
– travel as much as they can
- trying to meet new people from other countries, cause you can learn a lot of them."
Thank you very much Nuria!