Time Spent in Greece Changed My Life! Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Classes were interesting. I found that some students didn't put in effort and weren't penalized as they would have been in American Universities, which was frustrating. Classes were really cool though, I loved learning about The U.S. from a different perspective, as I was taught in English with Greek students and other international students. Grading was fair, courses were interesting and workload was alright- we were able to learn but weren't held back from traveling on weekends and at night by a ridiculous courseload.

On-site administration of your program

The teachers were great and obviously cared about the students, you could tell they were all passionate about their subjects. The program directors were FANTASTIC and I plan on visiting again just to see Dina, the program director! She was so helpful and cared about everyone in the program like we were her children.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I'm a vegetarian and the apartments are located right in the middle of Athens, so everything is very easily accessible. The fresh fruit, veggie and meat markets were a short walk away and we became really close with food vendors in the area, everyone was really kind and loved helping us improve our Greek.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I loved the excursions we went on as a group- we went to the most amazing ancient sites and were able to learn a ton about the history and culture of present day and ancient Greeks. I loved visiting the Oracle of Delphi, it was magical and the trips to Mycenea, Monemvassia and Ancient Olympia were great as well. These trips were part of the program, but on our own we were able to easily explore Athens (my apartment had an amazing view of the Acropolis!) and the staff was great about helping us travel throughout the country. Going to the Greek islands (any one of them!) is a MUST! We also had a lot of fun and learned about the traditions at Easter time, huge festivals and family oriented fun! Great time of year.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

At the moment, Greece is going through a lot of political change, so it's something to consider if you're thinking of going there. I was a minute walk away from the Syntagma Square and the parliament building, which is the center of the polical revolution. There were many strikes and events that took place, but I never felt unsafe in the area. It was amazing being a part of their history. I didn't have an issue with healthcare, but I know from others that it could be a bit difficult to work with sometimes. The staff was great about helping us get anything we needed, healthwise.

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

I was able to practice Greek with other people in my program and most other peers and professors. I could speak English with most everyone in the city, but knowing a bit of Greek came in very handy many times and it was rewarding being able to communicate (even basic things) in the host language.

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• Apartment

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• Americans

• The excursions
• The people I met (international university)
• The language/culture

• Classes could be more challenging