- Name
- Simon
- Study Programme
- BWL
- Semester
- 7th Semester
- Host Institution
- UC Leuven-Limburg (UCLL)
- Location
- Leuven, Belgium
- Period
- February to July 2024
What was your main motivation to go abroad?
Between finishing my A-levels and starting university, I spent several months in Portugal for an internship abroad, where I was able to gain many, mostly positive experiences, and developed a liking for life outside of Germany. I particularly enjoyed getting to know a new culture and different lifestyles. Thanks to financial support from Erasmus+, I knew early on in my studies that I wanted to take advantage of this opportunity.
It is, of course, a big step, and there will be occasional challenges, but it’s an incredibly rewarding experience from which you can gain a lot personally.
What were your biggest concerns?
Moving to a new city is always a challenge, especially when the city is in another country with a different national language. However, thanks to my previous experience abroad and my move to Ulm, I was already well prepared. The introductory week at the beginning quickly alleviated my concerns, and I was able to connect with others and make new friendships very quickly.
Would you recommend a stay abroad? Why?
Definitely! During your studies, thanks to the various funding options available, it’s one of the best opportunities to go abroad. I would genuinely recommend an experience abroad to everyone. It is, of course, a big step, and there will be occasional challenges, but it’s an incredibly rewarding experience from which you can gain a lot personally. You naturally become more independent, meet many new people from around the world, and in doing so, get to know new languages and cultures, as well as a new country and a new region with all they have to offer.
What did you learn from your stay abroad?
Above all, the friendships with people from various countries around the world, and simply an unforgettable experience. Also, the Belgian culture and way of life, with everything that comes with it, and not to forget the countless Frituurs with their fantastic Belgian fries. Moreover, Leuven as a city was also outstanding: large enough that it never got boring, but still small enough that you could get everywhere quickly, whether by bike, bus or on foot. Finally, it’s important to mention how much the experience abroad, with all its challenges, helps you grow and become more independent.
Were your expectations met?
Both yes and no. My expectations for a great time with many wonderful experiences were met and in some cases even exceeded. With the two universities in Leuven and the student organisations, there are many different opportunities and possibilities to try out new things and explore new places. However, the course level was partly different from what I expected, and some members of the academic staff were very strict in their grading and sometimes unclear due to a lack of transparency. On the other hand, the level of English was very good, and all the courses were easy to understand thanks to the generally high standard of English spoken in Belgium as a multilingual country.
Is there anything you would like to highlight about your experience abroad?
It’s important to be as open as possible to the entire experience and not to hide from small obstacles or let problems get you down. Additionally, with all the opportunities that come with a semester abroad, it can sometimes be a bit overwhelming, so it’s important to take small breaks and not feel the need to participate in everything. This way, you can enjoy the semester much more. Overall, the time abroad really helps you to develop as a person and to grow. So, go ahead and study abroad – it’s worth it!
Fun Fact
Belgium is a highly diverse country, especially with its three regions separated by language, each differing from the other. Additionally, every major city has its own unique charm. The Belgians are also a relaxed and fun-loving people, who never go a week without their beloved fries, paired with one of the many delicious sauces.
Impressions of Belgium
