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Student Residence: What You Need to Know

written by
Natasha Machado
20/5/2024
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5 min
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Among the available options, the student residence stood out as a popular choice among international students. In this article, I will share with you the benefits and challenges I faced when opting for this type of accommodation.

Benefits of living in a student residence

When I decided to do an exchange, one of the most important choices I had to make was about accommodation. After all, it's where I would spend a good part of my time and have the opportunity to live with people from different cultures.

First of all, it is essential to understand what a student residence is. This is a specific accommodation for students, which may be linked to an educational institution or be independent. Generally, students have the option of staying in individual or shared rooms, the latter being the most economical alternative.

  • Living with other exchange students: Living in a student residence allowed me to meet people from different countries, expanding my networking and providing a rich cultural exchange. This diversity was very enriching for my personal development.
  • Privileged location: The student residence where I stayed was located close to the educational institution, which made my daily commute easier and reduced my transportation costs. This proximity also allowed me to make better use of my free time to explore the city.
  • Greater freedom and independence: By opting for a student residence, I had more autonomy in relation to my schedules and activities. The rules of living together were more flexible than in a family home, for example, providing me with a sense of greater freedom.
  • Relaxed and fun atmosphere: The student residence offers a more youthful and relaxed environment, ideal for those looking for a more social and lively experience at Learn a language abroad Or make one University abroad.

Challenges of student residence

On the other hand, it is important to be aware of some challenges that may arise when choosing a student residence. One of them is the possibility of living with other Brazilians or Latinos, which can hinder cultural immersion and practice the language you are studying. In my case, I had to have discipline and seek opportunities to interact with people of other nationalities.

Another point I considered is that, in student residences, contact with natives may be less intense than in a family home, for example. If your primary goal is to have deep cultural immersion, this may not be the best option. Additionally, my student residence didn't include meals, which meant I had to cook or eat out, increasing my expenses.

Tips for choosing the ideal student residence

1. Search for the available options: Check which student residences are available in the city where you are going to study and compare the characteristics of each of them.

2. Assess the location: Consider the distance between the residence and the educational institution, as well as the proximity to supermarkets, pharmacies, and other essential services.

3. Check the amenities offered: See if the residence offers common areas, such as a study room, equipped kitchen, laundry room, and other facilities that can make a difference in your daily life.

4. Read reviews from other students: Look for testimonials and reviews from students who have lived in the residence you are considering. This can give you a more realistic idea of the experience of living in that place.

Conclusion

Choosing student residence as accommodation during my exchange provided me with a unique and enriching experience, full of learning and new friendships. However, it was critical for me to weigh the benefits and challenges, evaluating whether this option aligned with my goals and expectations.

Be Easy

If you are planning to study abroad and want to have the support of experienced professionals at every stage of the process, I recommend contacting the team of Be Easy Exchange. They are there to help you find the best accommodation option and ensure that your exchange experience is unforgettable. Don't hesitate to contact them and start planning your international journey today!

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Natasha D`Angelo
Founder e CEO, Be Easy
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