A life-changing semester in Greece filled with personal growth June 17, 2026

By Lorien W (Psychology, University of Southern California) - abroad from 01/19/2026 to 05/15/2026 with

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

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?

My study abroad experience helped me become more independent, adaptable, and confident while exposing me to new cultures and perspectives. As a Psychology major, I gained a deeper understanding of how culture shapes people's experiences and behavior. It was absolutely worthwhile, and the friendships, personal growth, and memories I gained will stay with me long after graduation.

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	Amazing staff, so helpful and caring!
* Housing: How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?	My apartment was roomy, clean and homey
* Food:	dining hall food could have been better, especially for vegetarians
* 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 The program included so many trips, abroad and in Greece. the classes were engaging and I loved my teachers

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)	I spent a lot of money on food, travel etc.
Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week?	300
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants?	Budget well! Plan trips in advance and leave at least 30 a week for groceries

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?	Intermediate
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure?	Spanish 3
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?	Practice with your roommates and friends!

Other Program Information

* Where did you live? Select all that apply	Dorm Apartment
* Who did you live with? Select all that apply	Local Students 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?	People Staff Trips
* What could be improved?	cafeteria heath services distance
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program?	I wish I had known how quickly the semester would go by and how important it is to make the most of every opportunity from the start. Looking back, I would have worried less about planning everything perfectly and spent more time being present and embracing new experiences. Some of my favorite memories came from spontaneous adventures and moments I never could have planned.

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 Avid Adventurer The wardrobe you packed was better suited for a semester of camping than club hopping. Outdoorsy, you might forgo a crazy night out for an early all-day adventure. You'd rather take in the rich culture of an old town than the metropolis of a modern city, but for you getting off the grid is ideal.

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