Cypriot mindset: Do it Tomorrow Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Other than Organic Chemistry, the classes were largely at a high school level. The ways I grew in Cyprus definitely did not include educational. Expectations were largely unknown and minimal. Granted, this made traveling more relaxing with less to worry about, but overall, I did not feel like the courses set us up for future success.

On-site administration of your program

Sakis and Laura were out of this world. They were intentional and relational and always available. I came to Laura on more than one occasion, even if it didn't directly involve school. I couldn't have asked for two better administrators.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The apartments we were in were very nice. I was informed, through the grape vine, by local students that we were paying far more than they were worth, but regardless, we had everything we needed. We had a great living space with a washing machine right in our kitchen, as well as a stove and oven. Compared to the other two apartment complexes, ours was definitely the best.

Though intimidating the first time one walks into Carrefour (because it was all in Greek), the food was awesome. I'm a big fan of Chicken Souvlaki now and everything that we needed was accessible. Produce was extremely low-priced, and that made eating healthy very easy.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I made a couple of Cypriot friends, but largely felt like a foreigner, outside of a local Crossfit gym. (I recommend Engomi Crossfit Factory for anyone who is looking to stay in shape, while here, as both the community and facility are awesome). I suppose, much of this lack of integration was my fault, because I liked to stay with what was familiar. Don't get me wrong, the people were largely very friendly, but how some of my African-American and women friends felt, didn't sit the best with me.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I did not have any major health concerns while over in Cyprus. The only 'scare' I had was a potential staph infection while in a local gym. The only thing is I wish that facilities would have more adequate first aid kits. Neither of the facilities had any kind of sufficient ointment for injuries. Nothing major though.

Obviously, as a study-abroad student, you're not going to feel like "you're in Kansas anymore." There's an element of being on your own in a new country, that is a bit unnerving. That being said, I never felt incredibly unsafe. Stay in groups in populated areas and let your roommates know where you will be at. The party scene in Ayia Napa is one instance where I'm really glad that I had some friends with. Just be smart.

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

2: There should probably be an asterisk next to mine, because I eat like an animal, but, if one wants to live frugally in Cyprus, it is definitely doable. I never drank or anything so my expenses were limited that way, but as I said, produce was cheap, almost everything is within walking distance, people help one another out, etc. The hardest part was when we traveled. Everyone wants souvenirs and certain countries are fairly expensive.

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

People spoke Greek, but they also spoke English. We were taught some basic Greek words when we got there, but they weren't really necessary.

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• Apartment

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• Americans

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• Local Students

• Crossfit Engomi
• New American connections/friends
• Personal growth

• Educational expectations
• Communication
• Housing prices