Preparation of your study abroad period
All the administrative work was handled quickly and without any issues. My emails were answered within a few days. However, the study program and the subjects I had chosen before arriving were not available, so I had to completely change my Learning Agreement by selecting new courses. On the other hand, the additional information I received before my arrival was very useful and practical – the Info-pack contained everything one need to get started for the semester.
Studying at the host university
The educational process went smoothly. The teachers conduct high-quality classes, upload materials to the e-learning platform, and always inform students in advance about any changes to the curriculum or schedule. The atmosphere at the university is also very pleasant. Students are kind and willing to help when needed. The premises and classrooms are easy to find. The central library is open every day from 8 a.m. to 2 a.m. However, there are very few power sockets available inside the library, so it's best to come with your devices fully charged.
Contact with local and international students
The university offers a buddy program through the Papaya app. You enter your contact details, some information about yourself, your hobbies, and you're matched with a local student who can help you with your studies or simply help you make your first connections with locals.
In general, I would say it’s somewhat difficult to get in touch with local students, as Erasmus students usually attend courses with other Erasmus students – although this also depends on your Erasmus program.
However, the university offers a wide variety of sports courses, which provide a great opportunity to interact with local students more easily. On the other hand, ESN organizes plenty of events for international students, making it very easy to meet other Erasmus students and make friends.
Language proficiency before and after study abroad period
During the semester, my Greek improved immensely. Simply hearing the language and reading signs on the streets had a strong impact, as did communicating with locals in everyday situations. The university also offers Greek language courses for Erasmus students. Additionally, I used the Tandem app to practice Greek with native speakers, helping them in return with languages in which I’m highly proficient.
Overall, my Greek skills improved significantly over the course of the exchange – from A1/A2 level to B1.
Housing and living situation
Finding accommodation in Thessaloniki is quite easy. There are Facebook groups where new rental listings are posted daily: “Thessaloniki - Rentals and Roommates - Σπίτι, Δωμάτιο, Συγκάτοικο”, “Erasmus: Aristotle University of Thessaloniki” as well as the website “spitogatos.gr”. I personally posted about myself and the type of accommodation I was looking for in one of the Facebook groups, and I found a place within a week!
A great advantage is that Thessaloniki now has a metro system, which makes getting around the city very efficient. A monthly student metro pass costs only 8 euros!
Additionally, AUTH students receive three free meals per day at the student restaurant. While the supermarket prices are a bit high, one can find affordable fruits and vegetables at the local markets. Overall, the cost of living and leisure activities in Thessaloniki is lower compared to Germany.
Studienfach: MSc Linguistics: Empirical and Theoretical Foundations
Aufenthaltsdauer: 09/2024 - 02/2025
Gastuniversität: Aristotle University of Thessaloniki
Gastland: Griechenland
Tips
You can buy fruits, vegetables, and second-hand clothing much more cheaply at the local markets, which take place in different areas of the city on weekdays. To track buses and get around easily, the “Moovit” app is very helpful.
For delicious desserts and drinks, one should definitely visit a café called “Little Big House” – it’s also a cat café!