Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

The most stressful semester in paradise January 12, 2026

By (Classics, University of Cincinnati) - abroad from 09/01/2025 to 12/20/2025 with

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

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
It was very worthwhile. To live in a different culture while learning about things you love is an experience worth riches.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 6 months+

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

I loved pretty much every moment of it. I sabotaged myself by applying for graduate schools while I was abroad, as well as choosing particularly challenging language classes.

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? $120
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Food is cheap at the supermarkets. The Farmer's Market is even cheaper and has fresh fruits and vegetables.

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

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?
Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? Use it as much as possible. Most people speak English, so learn how to say "Please, I need to practice my Greek." ("Παρακαλώ, χρειάζομαι να εξασκώ την ελληνικἀ μου.")

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
  • 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?
  • The professors are clearly knowledgeable and love their jobs
  • Robert Pitt is one of the most entertaining people I have ever met
* What could be improved?
  • Some modern language teachers are cruel and strict and do not care about you
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Most professors are amazing and will care about you and how you are doing.

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!