University of Reading (RDG)

I stayed in a host family, near the Reading University campus. The location of the house was perfect. The family, 2 people of about 60 years, was really kind to me, and I could use all the facilities, like the kitchen, the washing machine, the iron, etc. Moreover, I stayed there with a German girl, who was also studying at the university. Therefore, I could practise my German with her. She was also very kind. The main problem was the fact that such an accomodation was quite expensive. However, I have to admit that the cost of life in United Kingdom is high for a foreigner in any case.

The housing overall was good. I had my own room, unlike in my 3.5 years at Rutgers and ushers would clean my room every day. The hall was clean and had various events, such as Christmas dance, boat cruise, and soccer matches. Unfortunately, we had to pay a lot of money for thos events and for the printer, which still does not work (I came back in May to see my friends and it did not work). Another negative is food, but food is usually bad at all university halls. Overall, housing was good.

I believe the best way to enjoy the life at Reading university is to join English student clubs. Personally, I joined the photography club, the athletics club and the "chess and bridge" club. In such clubs, you can meet local and foreign students and make them become your friends. During the time I spent in these clubs, I had great fun and very nice moments. It is also a way to discover how English students live and enjoy life during their spare times. Finally, if you would like to enjoy short trips in England, Scotland or Ireland, you can do it for a 3-day or a 1-week experience in groups of about 20 people sharing a minibus. For Scotland, the company is called "Haggis", for England, I don't remember, sorry, and for Ireland, it is "Blarney buses". With Blarney, I had a great experience in Ireland. I recommend it to everyone.

England is very expensive, so it is key to spend money on what you have to spend. When you are travelling, do not pay 15 pounds for a meal when you can spend 8 (that is 13 dollar difference!) A pound is $1.60, so always think how much it is yu are spending in dollars!