Field of study in Wageningen: Environmental Sciences
Study period exchange: 09/02/2023 – 07/06/2023
Country (exchange): Portugal
City (exchange): Lisbon
University (exchange): University of Lisbon
Faculty (exchange): Faculty of Sciences
2. Motivation for exchange
Why did you choose to go on study exchange?
I wanted to meet new people, get in contact with new cultures and push my limits.
What is the reason you chose for this country/university?
I chose Portugal because I enjoy the nice weather and I heard a lot of good stories about the city of Lisbon.
3. Accessibility to reach destination
Do you have any tips to reach your exchange destination?
Unfortunately it is quite hard to travel by train or bus since it would take more than 36 hours and especially by train you have different stops which will be a bit problematic with all the luggage you are carrying. The easiest way is by plane, but if you don’t mind spending a few days in a bus, a Flixbus could also be a nice option.
4. University and studying
Could you provide some general information about the followed courses?
How is the study formalized?
The lessons are toughed by using powerpoint slides which are then uploaded on a platform. The lectures are not recorded therefore it is important to attend the lectures in order to understand all the lesson material. The exams were mostly open questions with questions about the theory and exercises. The academic level was pretty high in my opinion, since the courses followed are courses from one of the best energy and sustainability Master degrees. The workload was pretty high but still manageable.
What is the culture of the university?
The classes were smaller and therefore there was a good connection with the teachers which were always willing to respond kindly to all sort requests. The engagement with local students was not super high but through group works and group assignment this slowly increased. The differences with the WUR are that the lectures are not recorded and that the classes were smaller.
What does the university offer the student additionally?
I don’t think this university offers more than the WUR, the only thing I can think about are some parties and social events organized at the university itself and promoted by the university.
5. Housing-travelling-living
What are the possibilities for housing?
There is availability to sign up for a room on campus but also private rooms through websites like Uniplaces or spotahome. The rent in Lisbon is pretty, especially since it is a south-european city.
What is the culture of the country like?
About the local cuisine a lot of fish and meat is eaten since especially Lisbon is at the coast. The Portuguese are very friendly but also a bit shut towards international students.
Could you give a general price indication of the place of residence compared to living in Wageningen?
500 euro per month, compared to 300/400 euro in Wageningen.
Could you give some information about public transport infrastructure?
Public transport card for buses, trains, metro and ferry for the metropolitan area of Lisbon for students is around 30euro a month. The metro is the most used and easy public transport to use in the city. During the night also Uber and Bolt are very common to use since it is very cheap and very easy, for a trip of 15min you could easily pay 4-5euro which you could then split with more people.
6. Free time
What are must-sees in the area?
Cabo da Roca, Praia da Ursa, Sintra, Costa da Caparica. The best time to go is during spring since the weather is very nice.
What does not appear in the travel guide, but is worth a visit?
Go to the Azores (islands in the middle of the pacific), which are very accessible from Portugal.
Do you have general tips and tricks about leisure time?
Be member of ESN or other Erasmus companies which would offer you discounts on clubs, restaurants and trips. Download the app SHOTGUN where you can find all the events happening in Lisbon during your stay.
7. Challenges & best moment abroad
What was a challenge you have experienced?
Learning Portuguese and trying to speak it as much in possible in public, in restaurants etc. Being really on your own in a foreign city.
What was your best memory abroad?
Being at the Azores with my friends while watching and spotting dolphins and orcas.