Field of study in Wageningen: International Development Studies (BIN)
Study period exchange: 01/10/2022 – 27/02/2023
Country (exchange): Italy
City (exchange): Padova
University (exchange): University of Padova
2. Motivation for exchange
Why did you choose to go on study exchange?
I wanted to experience what it is like to live abroad, meet new people from different cultures and learn a new language.
What is the reason you chose for this country/university?
I wanted to a country with good weather and where they speak a different language than Dutch or English. The University of Padova has many courses which are taught in English compared to other universities in Italy.
3. Accessibility to reach destination
Do you have any tips to reach your exchange destination?
You can reach Venezia – Mestre by Flixbus within 18 hours. From there you can take a train to Padova, which is only about 20-30 minutes.
4. University and studying
Could you provide some general information about the followed courses? 
How is the study formalized?
During one semester you will follow all your courses at the same time. In the end you will have an exam period of about 4 weeks. The academic level differs a lot between courses, same goes for workload and examination. You can either have written exams or oral exams.
What is the culture of the university?
The lecturers are quite approachable, however be aware to call them by their last name which shows respect to the professors. Engagement with local students is a little bit harder, since local students often choose to have subjects in Italian.
What does the university offer the student additionally?
I haven’t make use of the services offered by the university. However, I know that the have cheap catering and sports facilities. The sports facilities are quite expensive.
5. Housing-travelling-living
What are the possibilities for housing?
Finding housing in Padova is really, really difficult. So you must start searching as soon as possible, preferably from April or May! There is a possibility to live on campus, but people from outside of Europe will have a spot first, so there aren’t many spots left. Also, many scammers are active on Facebook, so look out for that. Safe websites are bedstudent and housinganywhere.
What is the culture of the country like?
Typical Italian culture with amazing food! Get your espresso in the morning for only 1 euro and drink it at the counter. Drink you Aperol Spritz for only 3 euro in the afternoon.
Could you give a general price indication of the place of residence compared to living in Wageningen?
Single rooms in the centre costs approximately 550-700 euros Double rooms in the centre costs approximately 400 euros.
Could you give some information about public transport infrastructure?
I would recommend to buy a second hand bike (you can easily sell it at the end of your stay). The city has many bike lanes, so it is safe to ride your bike. You can also take the tram from North to South, or take one of the many busses.
6. Free time
What are must-sees in the area?
You must visit the Dolomites!! Other cities close by are Venezia, Bologna, Lago di Garda, Verona, Firenze, Rome, Napoli
What does not appear in the travel guide, but is worth a visit?
The number one visit is a trip to the Dolomites.
Do you have general tips and tricks about leisure time?
My favourite restaurant is Marechiaro. The serve really good pizza’s and have the best inside garden and lovely people.
7. Challenges & best moment abroad
What was a challenge you have experienced?
The biggest challenge was finding accommodation.
What was your best memory abroad?
All the people I have met, several trips to the Dolomites and visiting Venezia in low season multiple times.