Field of study in Wageningen: Health and Society
Study period exchange 26/09/2018 until 06/02/2019
Country (exchange): Italy
City (exchange): Padova
University (exchange): Universita delgi studi di Padova
Faculty (exchange): Psychology
2. Motivation for exchange
Why did you choose to go on study exchange?
I wanted to live abroad for a certain amount of time to experience how it is to live in another country.
What is the reason you chose for this country/university?
I am Italian so I wanted to improve my Italian languages skills. Moreover, Padova offers good courses in English and is flexible if you want to chose courses from different faculties.
3. University and studying
Could you provide some general information about the followed courses?
How is the study formalized?
There are two semesters instead of six periods at the WUR. Therefore, in the first months there is less pressure to study. Also, the lectures are 1,5 hour per lecture, often without break, so sometimes it is difficult to pay attention all the time. For the rest I think the education is organized well.
What is the culture of the university?
The lecturers are approachable. Local students are quite open from what I experienced.
What does the university offer the student additionally?
They have sport facilities, but not as many and cheap as at the WUR. I almost never used the catering service, but you can go to Mensa where you can eat for around 4,50 (a good amount of food!).
4. Housing-travelling-living
What are the possibilities for housing?
The Univeresity offers rooms in residences, but not enough for all students. I didn’t use the University’s service and found my room through Facebook.
What is the culture of the country like?
The cuisine is really good and more important than in the Netherlands. The people are really open in general and willing to help you.
Could you give a general price indication of the place of residence compared to living in Wageningen?
In Wageningen you pay more or less the same as in Padova. I had a double room in Padova and I paid aroun 250 euro. In Wageningen I have a single room and I pay 320 euro.
Could you give some information about public transport infrastructure?
I went by bike mostly.
5. Free time
What are must-sees in the area?
Church S.Antonio, Prato della valle, the piazza’s. Are are a lot of nearby cities you can viit: Venice, Verona, Ferrara, etc.
Do you have general tips and tricks about leisure time?
Ice cream: la Romana. Pizza: Idea pizza, da Pino, al Carmine, la lanterna., fishmarket.
6. Challenges & best moment abroad
What was a challenge you have experienced?
Adjusting to the different schedule of the University (longer lectures).
What was your best memory abroad?
Meeting so many nice people.