My semester in Lille
My name is Elisa. I have a bachelor in Comparative Politics, and as part of my master in Politics and Governance of Global Challenges I'm spending a semester at Université Catholique de Lille. Here I'm taking master courses in Multilevel European Governance.
![Lille Campus](https://www.uib.no/sites/w3.uib.no/files/styles/content_main/public/media/lille_campus_og_gamle_by_elisa_storksen_0.jpg?itok=0ZuP_LV1×tamp=1733330021)
Main content
I wanted to improve my French and was therefore quickly decided on going somewhere in France. The main factors for me choosing Lille was that the university looked good and had interesting courses, recommendations from UiB, and the fact that my study program had many spaces so that I was ‘guaranteed’ a spot. I also liked that there are many travel opportunities from Lille.
Similarities and differences at the universities
At least at master level there are quite a few similarities. The classes are relatively small and the exchange students take courses together with the French students in English. Most of the communication and work goes through an online platform similar to MittUiB/email and readings are available online. The professors and the people working in the administration speak English. As for differences, you have to take more courses and you are graded on your work throughout the semester and inclass activities in addition to the final exam. I’m taking 6 courses and have around 12 hour of lectures every week. As an exchange student you can choose courses from any master, and therefore have a lot more choice in your schedule and types of courses. Also, the lectures are always mandatory. Despite being very different, I would say that the workload is about the same, or maybe a bit less/easier than at UiB.
Student life
Student life is very good in Lille! The university campus is very nice and there is always something to do. In an average week the workload is manageable, and you have time to do things outside of university. During a normal week I go to classes, do some studying, go to the gym, meet my friends at the bar, go to an event, visit a museum, travel or do a day trip etc. I am also part of a student association and there are a lot of groups in and outside of the Erasmus network, everything from partying to running-clubs.
Cultural life
Many of the French clichés are true! There are many baguettes and cigarettes. Lille is cool because you get to experience French culture, but at the same time there are Belgian and Flemish influences. This is true for the food and architecture etc. There is always something happening here. It is a lively city with many events and happenings from food and beer festivals, races, fotball games, vintage shopping and markets, opera, techno events and parties, you name it.
Lille is mostly ‘city’ with a large park som heter La Citadelle. I heard a lot of complaints about the weather, that it is very rainy and windy, but in my experience that has not been a big problem at all, especially compared to Bergen! There are so many travel possibilities from Lille. Day-trips to Belgium and in France, and train connections to many places in and around France. Erasmus also have organised trips almost every weekend. If you want to travel, Lille is a great place for that, but mostly by train and flixbus.
Highlights
Lille is very well known for La Braderie de Lille. Every year there is a gigant flea market and parties in the streets. It’s a full weekend of dancing in the streets and many good opportunities for second-hand shopping. Several million people come to Lille every year to experience this, and it is so fun! Speakers are playing music from random apartments in the city-center and old town, and people gather to party. All of the stores, bars and restaurants also have special events and deals this weekend.
Some advice for future students
I would definitely live close to the university campus if possible, preferably in university accommodation. Many people struggle finding accommodation and/or have problems with agencies. I know many people who live outside the city, and even though the metro and train system is very good, the metro stops around midnight. Walking distance is therefore important.
Go to all the Erasmus/university events in the first weeks. It is very easy to meet people and that’s where I found my friend group. I also recommend to follow @lille_addict on instagram. They post everything that is happening. There you can find all events for pretty much every weekend.
A special experience
My favourite moment is probably when my friends and I were dancing at a dj-set outside during sunset at La Braderie after drinking wine in the sun all day! That whole weekend was a blast, but that was very special.