Study Abroad with CYA September 08, 2023

By (Political Science and Journalism, George Washington University) - abroad from 01/23/2023 to 05/20/2023 with

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

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I gained more independence and a broader outlook on the world, I learned about European politics, I made lasting friendships

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.

Great course options and professors

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

In depth assistance, helpful administration

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Nice apartments, well done roommate selection

* Food:

Delicious food!!!

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Mostly with American students, bubble within Pangrati

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

Felt very safe

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

I made absolutely the right decision for me. CYA provided me with the experience I was looking for: great friends, interesting classes, delicious food, rare cultural experiences, etc

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)

Budgeting varied

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? 200
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Prioritize what you want to spend your money on

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

Yes! I loved taking modern 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? AP Spanish
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 it in tavernas and cafes!

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

  • Americans
About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with? 0

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • The structure
  • Field study trips
  • Food
* What could be improved?
  • More cultural immersion
  • Less of a bubble of American students
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I wish I was more excited and less nervous! Everyone has their own experiences, you get what you put into it

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.