The following section portrays some testimonials from exchange students reporting on their study-abroad experience and giving valuable advice. You can listen to more tips & tricks in the two episodes of the podcast. Get inspired!
Podcast
25:43 minutes | 23 Oct 2024 | ©International Office
Podcast
26:52 minutes | 23 Oct 2024 | ©International Office
© L. Hayles
What did you like most about your stay at LMU / in Munich?
I think Munich is a really friendly city, as long as you don’t cross a red light in front of the locals, and there is so much to do. Especially as an international student, you get to meet people from all over the world who you will remain friends with for a long time after. There is also always something to do, whether it is big day trips out to the Bavarian alps or just relaxing around the University and the city. The area of Maxvorstadt is especially nice as there is the University, the Englischer Garten and a range of good bars, beerhalls and other activities. I found that I was able to have a good routine during my stay in Munich, but also managed to do something new pretty much every week. Especially, me and some friends made sure to go to a historic pool club right next to university nearly every week, where we played pool and then went to get a Kebab and then to an independent cinema down the street straight after. You will find that you always have something to do in Munich and with a range of people, making your life as an international student very fun and unique.
What is your favorite spot, and why?
My favorite spot in Munich would probably be the Nymphenburg Schloss, which I found an extremely beautiful and relaxing place. I often went there after studying or on my days off, where I could bring friends who were visiting me or just relax by myself. The art inside of the palace was amazing and so unique as it was collected and commissioned by the royalty who lived there, meaning many of the artworks had funny stories behind them. There is a huge estate, with many secret buildings and lakes hidden within the trees. For me personally, I made sure to go cycling here all the time as it is normally not too busy and has a variety of off-roading sections. Perlacher Forst in the south of the city as well as the Bavarian Alps are also amazing places to do off-road cycling. In winter, this palace is particularly special as the canal in front of it freezes over, meaning many people go ice skating, play hockey or curling, or like me, just enjoy taking walks on it and falling.
What would you recommend to new exchange students?
I would recommend that new exchange students try to go out and do things very unique to Munich. Especially, you should try to eat a range of Bavarian specialities - my favorite being Kasespatzle - and go on many trips out to Alps or the surrounding lakes and historic sites. For me, this was the best way to ensure that the city didn’t become boring and to take care of my mental health. This is also the best way to find new friends. There are always events being help by the Erasmus program, the ESN groups, which you will be told about. All of your modules will have Erasmus students as well, so you will always have someone to do something with, just make sure you engage with these facilities.
© W. Liang
What did you like most about your stay at LMU / in Munich?
What I liked most was the academic atmosphere at LMU. In class and after class, we could freely discuss and exchange academic ideas with the professors. Each professor has their own unique teaching style and a sense of humor. For courses that require writing papers, the professors would specifically teach us how to choose topics, how to search for academic resources, and they also provided consultation hours after class to discuss our topics. All of this was very helpful for my studies.
What is your favorite spot, and why?
My favorite spot is Olydorf. Originally built as the athletes' quarters for the 1972 Olympic Games, it has now become a place where students live. Each of us has a small house called Bungalows, and we can paint it with patterns that we like. It is a vibrant community with lots of interesting activities and student organizations. Here, we can meet young students from all over the world. Moreover, Olydorf is close to the Olympic Park, which has beautiful scenery. The sunsets there are particularly stunning.
What would you recommend to new exchange students?
Don't miss the museums in Munich! Munich is home to a wide variety of museums, including the Alte Pinakothek, the Deutsches Museum, the Museum Five Continents, the BMW Museum ... .
These museums can satisfy a wide range of interests in art, history, and technology. Many museums offer student tickets, and some museums have special Sunday activities where you can visit for only one euro. It's definitely a great value!
© Maximiliano Perry
What did you like most about your stay at LMU / in Munich?
Regarding my stay at LMU, I appreciated the opportunity to study subjects similar to those I pursued in Chile but with innovative perspectives, whether through the teaching methods of professors or the understanding of fellow students. Furthermore, I particularly enjoyed Munich during the Christmas season as the city transforms and there is a beautiful festive spirit. I also valued the abundance of options to meet people in the city, whether through sports clubs, bars, or parks, which has allowed me to connect with many individuals and form new memories.
What is your favorite spot, and why?
During my exchange, I dedicated myself to exploring the city to the fullest, as I believe that walking and discovering unknown places are highly rewarding experiences. My favorite spot was Olympiapark where, due to my interest in sports, I found opportunities to engage in activities like football matches or, alternatively, to watch sports such as Munich's ice hockey games. Additionally, the Olympic Stadium hosts concerts, providing another reason to frequent the area. In summary, Olympiapark is not only perfect for sports enthusiasts but also a beautiful park worth exploring even for those less enthusiastic about sports.
What would you recommend to new exchange students?
I would recommend not missing out on opportunities to do things. I mean, if the university organizes an event, go for it, and if you're unsure about attending a gathering with friends you've met, go. After the exchange, you wouldn't want to feel like you missed out on something or wish you had acted differently because that's when unique experiences are formed. Munich, in particular, is a city with a large student population, making it easy to meet many local and exchange students, providing ample opportunities to build connections, friendships, and unforgettable experiences.
© A. Drabant
What did you like most about your stay at LMU / in Munich?
The thing I’ve most enjoyed about my time in Munich has been the opportunity to meet new people in a new city. The chances that LMU has provided to connect with other exchange students and locals have definitely been a highlight of my stay. The people I’ve spent time with, as well as the opportunities to explore new places, have made this an unforgettable experience.
What is your favorite spot, and why?
My favourite spot in Munich has been Marienplatz. Ever since I first arrived, I’ve loved taking walks into the city and finding myself in the main square in front of the Rathaus. Watching the atmosphere shift from summer to the Christmas markets, the stunning architecture, and the constant bustle of people all make it an incredible place to spend time in Munich.
What would you recommend to new exchange students?
The best advice I have to give new exchange students is to take every opportunity to meet new people, especially in your first week in Munich. While it can feel daunting at first, I truly believe this was a pivotal moment for my exchange experience. The majority of the friends I made were through meeting other exchange students in September, before classes started. I’d highly recommend getting to Munich early, before classes begin, and taking full advantage of all the opportunities that LMU offers to connect with others.