Tell us about you!
Hello! My name is Stefani Varvara, i just turned 21 here in France and I am from Greece. I study culture and foreign languages at
the University of Thessaly.
Why did you choose the University of Strasbourg?
I chose a university in France because i wanted to further practice my french skills and specifically i chose this city, Strasbourg, because i was charmed by its intercultural qualities-with it being so close and sharing history with Germany-.
It has a unique beauty with its plentiful rivers, nature being present everywhere and architecture. It's small in size, very convenient for students, and its position close to the border makes it perfect for travelling to nearby countries.
Lastly, the European Parliement and other important european institutions are placed here which are very interesting to visit especially for someone in my field of studies.
In your opinion, how can an international student best prepare before or upon arriving in Strasbourg?
The language is very important so if your French is a bit rusty you should prepare a bit but don't worry they're a lot of free programs for Erasmus students available for improving your level while staying here.
They're a lot of things to take care and enjoy when you arrive so just try not to get overwhelmed and stay organised to not miss anything that's important.
On that note time passes by quickly so note down the things you wanna do and enjoy while here.
What piece(s) of advice would you give to an international student coming to the University of Strasbourg?
You will surely miss your country and being able to talk in your native language while being here, i surely did, but don't forget to take advantage of this opportunity to study abroad and embrace the foreign aspects you're not used to because the time will pass faster than you expect and you will already have returned back home in no time.
Also, if you know how to ride a bike, or want to learn, its very convenient to rent one here as the city is built around this mean of transport.
Did you have the opportunity to try any of the University of Strasbourg's programs for international students? If so, which ones, and what did you think of them?
I had the opportunity to attend (during the Welcom Days) some of the welcoming stalls and foodtracks back in September which were very fun and created a festive atmosphere in the campus space.
I also participate in a language exchange program called TANDEM-which is supported by the university- in which you help a french native student whom is interested in your native language to learn it and in turn they help you whith your french. Its nice because its very flexible in the hours and in the things you wanna improve exactly like having a free private tutor.
How has this experience influenced you personnaly or academically ?
It has been challenging but very beneficial as an experience so i don't regret it one bit. Through the difficulties you overcome, you learn to trust yourself more and have knowledge and practice in situations you couldn't otherwise been into.
Also, it has been very interesting to experience a foreign academic setting as the philosophy of education/teaching and the ways things are done in a classroom are different. It makes you re-evaluate what is "normal" and "correct" in university and you learn what you like best in each country's approach.
Is there a habit, a tradition or an aspect of the local culture that surprised you when you first arrived ?
I was very surprised by the politeness as everyone holds the door for one another as they pass through the university buildings.
Also saying goodbye "au revoir" when the class is finished or when exiting a store.
What would you say to encourage an other international student to come study in Strasbourg ?
Living among native speakers will improve your language skills beyond compare, the university has a lot of libraries suited for every taste, specifically for foreign languages it has a lot of great recourses you can borrow.
Also, the university restaurants have great balanced, quality and cheap food, my favourite is situated at Gallia.
The city is very walkable and i enjoy thoroughly the greenery and the rivers. Also it's very picturesque and if you enjoy taking pictures it has great backdrops everywhere.
Do you have a story or memorable moment from your time in Strasbourg that you would like to share?
One time i locked up another bike with mine by accident in front of a university library and the poor person left a note with their phone number so i could tell them that i was leaving so their bike was finally free. So be careful people!