Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

The most amazing summer experience! September 05, 2022

By (Government and Art, Film, and Visual Studies, Harvard University) - abroad from 05/23/2022 to 07/15/2022 with

CYA (College Year in Athens) - Semester/Academic Year Program

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
The knowledge I gained and the people I met expanded my view of the world tenfold. Had I not studied abroad, the entire treasure trove of rich archaeological, social, and cultural history that is Greece would remain hidden from me.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? None

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* Food:

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

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

Studying abroad in Greece was truly the trip of a lifetime. Never have I traveled so much, seen so much, or learned so much. Visiting the Acropolis and the ancient ruins we discussed in class was an incredibly immersive learning experience unlike any other.

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? $75

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
  • Apartment
  • Hotel
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
  • International Students
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • 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?
  • Traditional Greek Cuisine
  • The Acropolis
  • Affordability of Athens
* What could be improved?
  • Transportation to Classes Farther Away from Housing
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Adjusting to a new environment in a foreign country can be daunting and a bit overwhelming at first, but culture shock is completely normal. The rewards of persevering and learning how to navigate these new spaces, full of exciting possibilities, make the initial discomfort all the more worthwhile.

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 Academic or Linguist
You went abroad with specific academic goals in mind; the program credentials and rigor of your coursework abroad were very important to you. You had a great time abroad, but never lost sight of your studies and (if applicable) were diligent with your foreign language study. Good for you!