Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Research Internship at Perrotis Past Review

By (Berea College) - abroad from 05/17/2019 to 07/12/2019 with

Perrotis College: Thessaloniki - Direct Enrollment & Exchange

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned about greek history, exploring the culture through food, and the exploring the various influences Greece has from other countries. While I didn't learn as much about cover crops in semi arid conditions, I learned about some of the difficulties greek farmers go through. I also learned the different culture behind the crop systems, and why some farmers are adverse towards newer technologies; not only because of expense, but the lack of exposure. I think the experience, while not something I wish to repeat, was worthwhile. I learned about myself, a people and culture I further appreciate, and broadening my perspectives. I hope I can share what I've learned to others going abroad.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 2 weeks - 1 month

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?

The staff are Perrotis are open about questions, concerns, and ways to navigate the culture.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

Perrotis is located in a secluded area of the outskirts of the city. There is a gate monitored by guards on top of security cameras placed around campus.

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? No

There was some miscommunication about the internship program I applied for. Some of the miscommunication or lax communication were some cultural differences. However, the required work load did not Despite some of the difficulties with the internship itself, the overall experiences provided by the program were excellent. However, due to the inconsistent quality of advisors I would recommend students take the summer study abroad classes over the internships.

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? Probably 150 euros
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Learn how to keep track of transactions, busget

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? Practice with people who speak the language

Direct Enrollment/Exchange

* Did you study abroad through an exchange program or did you directly enroll in the foreign university? Direct Enrollment

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* 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?
  • I enjoyed the cultural experiences provided by the program. We explored Athens, visited islands, beach hopping, and some cultural centers and museums.
  • One other aspect I enjoyed about the program was the chance to explore the city. Thessaloniki is a rich place that takes time to parse through.
  • I liked talking with some of the other programs offered on campus. I'm interested in poultry, and the campus has a poultry facility in conjunction with other facilities like dairy. I learned about commercial farming techniques I hadn't known about in an intensive system.
* What could be improved?
  • Establishing communication with the advisor and the student working on the project. I and other interns had difficulty knowing what our advisors wanted or needed to get done.
  • The food service was not flexible with the dietary needs of other people.
  • Offering more information about Greece, the potential expenses, and tips to be trip savvy while abroad.
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I wish I knew, because I couldn't find reviews of the internship program, what I should have expected. They gave me a syllabus of the expected hours to work, but the information didn't align with my experience.

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.