Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Impressed with Greece and ACT Past Review

By (International Relations and National Security Studies., Boston University) - abroad from 06/09/2010 to 07/31/2010 with

American College of Thessaloniki (ACT): Thessaloniki - Direct Enrollment & Exchange

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
how to travel/meet people on my own, how to nap when it's really hot ou--frozen wet washcloth on your head :)

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 1 month - 6 months

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Not a lot of homework but classwork required a high level of intellectual sophistication, which was challenging at times as Greece is very hot in the summer!

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

Laura was so friendly and very helpful, in regards to school and travel advice

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Small apartments but more than sufficient; great location and windows open all the way to a porch for a nice breeze. Would have been nice to have a homestay component, but got to meet a lot of nice Americans in my housing

* Food:

Greek food is to die for, and incredibly cheap (compared to the rest of europe). Beware of frappes and drinks, however, those can get expensive. Food at ACT was fine, of course restaurants are better--ask what they recommend and let them pick for you!

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

not very, except for a few greek students in classes. Mostly the friends I made and I had to wander around, join groups in the city, and talk to people on the boardwalk and we made some very interesting Greek friends with whom we still connect via facebook!

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Healthcare is expensive for foreigners

* Safety:

Felt very safe the whole time, on campus and in the city

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

Finances

* Money: How easily were you able to live on a student's budget?

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

Very easy

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $100 or less
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Greek food and transport is cheap, just don't take taxis or go to fancy clubs, the bars aren't horrible but the ones on the boardwalk can be expensive. Wine with dinner is more economical. Gyros are a great way to save money too!

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
How much did the program encourage you to use the language?

0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language

i learned a little greek

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? None
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Beginner
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? none
How many hours per day did you use the language? 0
Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? meet greek people, go out of your way!

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • International Students
About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with?

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • travel with program
  • academics
  • friends i met
* What could be improved?
  • not much!
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? some Americans just don't travel the way I do--and some skype their boyfriends all the time. they are lost causes, don't waste time.

Reasons For Studying Abroad

To help future students find programs attended by like-minded individuals, please choose the profile that most closely represents you.
The Networker
An active student leader, it was important for you to network abroad as well. Once overseas, you sought out student clubs, volunteered with local organizations, or attended community events. You encouraged your friends join you, and often considered how you could reflect your international experiences in a resume.