Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Best three months of my life! Past Review

By (International/Global Studies., Boston College) - abroad from 09/16/2013 to 12/17/2013 with

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

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
My time in Greece was 100% worthwhile! It was an adventure, and I gained a new perspective on things. After completely emerging myself in a completely different culture from my own and being accepted with open arms, I learned the importance of understanding people on a deeper level and seeing how cultural differences affect how people are. Also, I learned how loving and welcoming the Greek culture truly is.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 0-2 weeks

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Not overbearing for a study abroad program, but I did learn a lot! I enjoyed all of my classes.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I lived in Alexandrias, an apartment with all my study abroad peers and Greek citizens. I loved living with my friends and being part of the neighborhood.

* Food:

Greek food is the best. I miss it everyday.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I love Thessaloniki because it isn't like living in a huge tourist city where everyone speaks English. You will feel truly immersed into the culture. This is easily one of my favorite parts of the program!

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Doctor was provided by the school twice a week and on call in case of emergencies.

* Safety:

I was aware but never feared walking around the city, pick pocketer s, public transportation, etc.

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)

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? 60-100 US dollars.
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Be aware of the dollar-to-euro conversion rate. Also, budget and have an idea about how much you would like to spend on travelling, shopping, food, etc.

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

You are strongly encouraged to practice what you learn in the classroom. The Greek people will generally appreciate your effort and help you out!

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? None
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? One semester of beginner Greek
How many hours per day did you use the language?
Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? Use the vocabulary and language skills taught in the classroom in your everyday activities. It helps with integrating into the culture, and it's a very fun language! Practice makes perfect!

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
  • Other
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • Americans
  • 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?
  • Integration into the community
  • Strong community (among study abroads and full time students)
  • Liberty to make our experience what we wanted it to be
* What could be improved?
  • Bus system (to and from school)
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Bring a winter coat (if you plan to travel to cooler places).

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 Outright Urbanite
A social butterfly, you're happiest in bustling cities with hip people, and took advantage of all it had to offer. You enjoyed the nightlife, and had fun going out dancing, and socializing with friends. Fun-loving and dressed to the nines, you enjoyed discovering new restaurants, shops, cafes, and bars in your host country.