Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

I would choose CYA again if I had to do a do-over June 21, 2025

By (Neuroscience, Oberlin College) - abroad from 01/20/2025 to 05/17/2025 with

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

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Studying abroad with CYA was truly one of the most rewarding experiences of my college career. While I had the chance to travel across many countries in Europe, what made the program stand out was the opportunity to explore Greece in depth through academic field trips. From remote mountain villages to ancient ruins, I visited places I never would have seen on my own—and learned so much in the process. The professors were absolutely incredible: engaging, supportive, and always willing to meet outside of class. They created a learning environment where participation was encouraged and students genuinely felt heard. I appreciated how understanding and flexible they were, especially as we balanced travel and academics. One of the unexpected highlights was the friendships I made. I met students from universities all across the U.S., and we’ve stayed connected even after returning home.

Review Photos

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

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.

* 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

CYA gave me a perfect mix of academic growth, cultural immersion, and travel. It was an absolute blast, and if I could do it all over again, I would choose CYA again in a heartbeat.

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? Maybe around 40€

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No
How much did the program encourage you to use the language?

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

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?

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • The people there
  • The location
  • Academics
* What could be improved?
  • Food
  • Student engagement
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I wish I had known more about my academic schedule so I could’ve made travel plans a bit sooner.

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.