Universidad de Vigo (UV)

It was very difficult to be moved from the residence hall to an apartment. The staff wasn't to enthusiastic about helping me until my university in the states got involved.

Everyone knows that Spaniards party like nobody else. You can always find something to do on Friday or Saturday night. The locals all seem to crowd Churruca, which is a street full of bars near the city center. Also, the cultural center usually has some kind of play, concert or exhibit weekly. You should definitely get involved with this part of the Spanish culture. You can pick up a schedule of events at any Caixa Nova bank.

I suggest that you make lots of international friends while you are here!! That way you have free lodging if you are able to travel throughout Europe. Be outgoing and throw yourself into different situations. I am taking a dance class... I may have two left feet and be the worst at the rumba in the class, but it is fun. Don't sit and wait for things to happen to you... Jump in!

At times the opportunities to speak in Spanish at the University of Vigo were scarce. This is because so many of the Erasmus students spoke English also. It is easy to rely on English rather than to put yourself in an uncomfortable situation. Also, the fact that Vigo is in Galcia needs to be addressed. Many people speak Gallego and all of the University materials are printed in it. When choosing your classes, you must be sure to get classes instructed in Spanish.

In Spain you need pictures of yourself for everything. Wait until you get here to buy them. It seems that every mom and pop store can take your picture for a reasonable price.