Complutense University of Madrid
How did you draw up your Learning Agreement?
After my Erasmus+ study mobility was approved, I read about the study courses offered by the host university and prepared a study plan, choosing the courses I would have to study at RSU.
How is the study process organized in the receiving university? What is different compared to RSU?
The study process at the University of Madrid is organised differently than at RSU. Lectures are held throughout the academic year from 8.00 to 12.00/13.00, with a lecture or seminar in the afternoon. Lectures and seminars are theoretical only; they don’t work with patients. The whole academic year is divided into lecture-class periods and into periods of rotations in hospital departments only. Patients are seen during rotations. Exams are organised in all study courses throughout the academic year. The study process takes more time; the work load is greater.
What were the living conditions?
Living conditions were excellent. I rented a room in a flat right opposite Retiro Park (a minute's walk away), and a 10-minute walk from the hospital. I shared the flat with a student from the US and a guy from Spain. The host university did not offer dormitories for Erasmus+ exchange students.
Did the Erasmus+ grant cover the living expenses?
No. Even if you have a modest lifestyle, you will still need a little extra money. Madrid has very expensive rent, which you should be aware of before you go to exchange. Daily expenses are very similar to those in Riga. Public transport is much cheaper for students.
Your advice and recommendations for others choosing this city for their mobility
Madrid is one of the biggest cities in Europe and is also a historic centre of Spain.
I recommend seizing all the cultural opportunities it has to offer – museums, theatres, opera, architecture. I recommend visiting different events, and the small towns nearby, to travel, enjoy the weather and nature. I recommend you start looking for a place to stay early. Learn Spanish to become fluent, as the locals’ English is quite weak.
I recommend to actively follow the study process and communicate with local students, as the organisation of study process is rather poor – there is a lack of information from the host university. I recommend seizing the opportunities offered in hospitals and outside them.
The best memory or experience from Erasmus+ mobility
Friends and acquaintances made during my Erasmus+ exchange!
The most valuable realization or lesson you have learned
Be open, don’t be afraid and show interest – that’s the key to success!
