Preparation of My Study Abroad Period
I learned about the Erasmus+ program through emails from the University of Potsdam. Later, I explored the Hasso Plattner Institut (HPI) and University of Potsdam websites to check their partnership agreements with different universities.
Before being accepted, I contacted Télécom Paris to clarify their course offerings for international Erasmus students. Their website was somewhat unclear, so I reached out via email. They responded quickly and helpfully. Claude Allafort was particularly supportive, especially when coordination issues arose between HPI and Télécom Paris.
The application process had a tight deadline between receiving Erasmus+ approval and Télécom Paris’ submission deadline. Fortunately, I had researched their requirements in advance, and Claude extended the deadline for us when necessary. The required documents included:
- Application form (with personal details and motivation questions)
- Draft learning agreement (non-binding, used to assess course interests)
- Statement of purpose
- CV
- Transcript of records (Bachelor’s and Master’s)
- Two letters of recommendation (tricky due to the tight deadlines)
- English language certificate (or French if taking courses in French)
Studying at the Host University
The course structure at Télécom Paris differs significantly from HPI. They operate on shorter periods, so most courses are worth 2–2.5 ECTS (as opposed to 3–6 ECTS at HPI). This makes reaching the 30-credit requirement challenging. However, HPI often rounds 2/2.5 ECTS courses up to 3 ECTS, which helps in credit validation. Otherwise, additional “filler” courses might be needed.
Passing a course requires at least 50% of available points (10/20). Courses vary in assessment format:
- Some have a 100% final exam.
- Others combine exams and projects (e.g., 50/50 split).
- Some use labs, projects, and exams in mixed proportions.
Second-year courses are generally more theoretical, while third-year courses are more applied. Depending on selection, students can only enroll in either second- or third-year courses.
Lectures at Télécom Paris are larger and often shared across schools, limiting direct professor interaction (unlike HPI’s smaller class sizes). However, teaching assistants (TAs) and professors are approachable, with some professors available after class. French students generally prefer speaking French, but a large international community, especially from Latin America and other Erasmus+ students, creates a welcoming social environment.
The university has an active student community. Student organizations hold significant influence and shape student life. Administrative staff are also proactive in fostering student connections and providing assistance.
Facilities include a decent library (a bit small for the student population), computer labs, and reservable study rooms.
Contact with Local and International Students
Since I didn’t speak French, I primarily interacted with international students, including many from Latin America and other Erasmus+ students. A few French students were open to interaction, mainly those who spoke Spanish.
I made many friends both at Télécom Paris and where I lived—Cité Internationale Universitaire de Paris (CIUP). CIUP houses students from various countries and organizes cultural events, which allowed me to connect with a wide range of international students, including fellow Mexicans.
I didn’t join student organizations but attended events from the international office and career fairs.
Language Proficiency Before and After Study Abroad Period
Before arriving, I had no knowledge of French, as I was focused on learning German. By the end of my stay, my French improved to about an A1 level, especially in reading. I also took German courses since I planned to return to Germany afterward.
Housing and Living Situation
Finding accommodation was challenging, but easier than in Potsdam or Berlin. I secured a spot in the Mexican House at CIUP, which took about 1–2 months. Renting in Paris is difficult due to the common requirement of a guarantor, but CIUP does not require one, which made it a convenient choice.
Public transport in Paris is expensive unless you buy a subscription. During my first two weeks, I had to buy individual tickets while waiting for my yearly transport card (Navigo), which was costly. After that, I had no issues with transportation.
I did not open a French bank account since I already had a German one. I also did not need to apply for health insurance, as my German insurance was valid in France.
My approximate monthly expenses were around 1000 EUR, covering rent, food, phone, eating out, and entertainment.
Studienfach: MSc Software Systems Engineering
Aufenthaltsdauer: 09/2024 - 03/2025
Gastuniversität: Télécom Paris
Gastland: Frankreich
Looking Back
Tips for Future Erasmus+ Students in Paris:
- Apply early for accommodation.
- Check for specific application requirements at your host university.
- Apply for CAF (housing financial aid in France).
- Order your Navigo transport card in advance.
- If your country has a house at Cité Internationale, apply for it. Alternatively, Télécom Paris has partnerships with some residences.
- Consider choosing third-year courses, as they are more aligned with HPI’s second-year Master’s curriculum. Additionally, third-year students do not have daily classes at Télécom Paris, making it easier to live in Paris instead of commuting to Palaiseau (similar to the Berlin-Potsdam commute).
Positive and Negative Experiences:
The best part of my Erasmus+ stay was meeting so many people. If I could have stayed another semester, I would have.
The main drawbacks were the cost and time required for administrative tasks, especially obtaining my visa. However, the visa process does not apply to EU nationals, and the administrative time investment was worth it.
Other Important Information
Paris offers endless entertainment and cultural experiences. I spent my weekends exploring the city with online guides and enjoyed nights out at bars or house parties in CIUP. Studying at Télécom Paris was a rewarding academic and social experience, and I highly recommend it to future Erasmus+ students.