Interview with Laura

Why did you choose Belgium and Antwerp in particular?

Well, it was not exactly my choice. I decided to apply to an Erasmus scholarship, where I can improve my English knowledge. Belgium was the only country (out of my home university's partners), where an Erasmus student can study in English. So I applied to Plantijn Hogeschool in Antwerp .

What was your first impression of Antwerp ?

It was really shocking, that how many different people live here. It was really strange, that you are walking in the street, and every second person has different culture. So I think Antwerp is a really multicultural city.

Do you have a different perception after few months?

No, I still think that Antwerp is a city of diversity, but of course I am not surprised at this anymore.

Is Belgium very different from your home country?

Of course there are many differences between Hungary and Belgium . For example, in Antwerp . In Budapest with a bicycle I would be killed in 15 min. as the drivers have no respect for people on bike.

What was your worst experience here? And the best one?

I think all of my experiences were really good, so I couldn't answer to this question. J

What do you think about Plantijn and the other Erasmus students?

Plantijn is totally different from my home university which is much more smaller. Plantijn is really nice and well equipped (with multimedia facilities) and it has a huge agora where students usually organise some activities. And the other Erasmus students? I will miss them if I go home, because I really came to like all of them during these months.

What is your opinion about Belgian people?

I think Belgian people are very friendly and ready to help if you have a problem. It was very easy to communicate with them, because almost everyone can speak English in Antwerp .

Have you changed your daily life? (food, hobbies, sports….)

Not, really. The only thing I didn't do before is riding the bike, because as I said it is almost impossible in Budapest .

Do you like night life in Antwerp ?

Yes, I like it. There are lots of clubs in Antwerp , where students can have a party or just drink some beer with the friends.

Could you describe your Erasmus experience in few words?

It was one of the best periods of my student life, so I am really glad to be here. I have met with lots of interesting and very kind people from different countries. I hope one day we can meet again, and bring up the memory of these months.

INTERVIEW WITH LAURA