Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Greece Will ALWAYS Be My Favorite College Memory! <3 Past Review

By (Communication, University of Indianapolis) - abroad from 02/09/2013 to 05/25/2013 with

Webster University: Athens - Odyssey in Athens

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I never realized how much this experience would change my life. I learned so much about myself and I am a completely different person than I was 6 months ago. Living abroad can be difficult, but I definitely became more independent. I also found a passion for traveling and hope I get to travel more in my lifetime.

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.

The classes are designed to be easier so you can make the most out of your study abroad experience. My professors were always very understanding if I missed a day of class due to travel.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

Dina Skias was an AMAZING director! She made me feel right at home and was always there when I needed her. I got sick during my second week abroad. Dina made sure to call a doctor for me and brought me soup and crackers. She even called me throughout the weekend to make sure I was okay. You can honestly tell Dina loves her job! I am so lucky to know such a wonderful person!

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I honestly thought the housing was fine. It might of been a little small for six girls, but we learned to manage.

* Food:

The food in Greece is so fresh and delicious. I tried to cook a lot in the apartment to save money, but I always loved trying different places around Plaka.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I didn't know Greek prior to coming to Athens. A majority of the locals spoke English, but I thought it was important for me to learn the language of the country. So, I enrolled in the Greek course once I arrived in Athens. The Greek language is difficult to learn, but I'm glad I took the class. I highly recommend it. In addition, I also had the opportunity to do community service at a refugee center. My roommate and I taught English to refugees. It is by far one of my favorite memories in Athens!

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Dina called a doctor for me when I got sick. The doctor came to my apartment and I paid him about 80 Euro. Although it was expensive, my insurance company reimbursed me after I sent them my receipt.

* Safety:

I never felt in danger while in Athens. When I would go out, I always tried to go with another friend or group of people.

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

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 tended to spend more money during breaks/holiday weekends. However, I thought it was easy to stay on budget.

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $150.00
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Save up and plan ahead. I saved up for 1 1/2 years before I studied abroad

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

The program never forced us to use the langauge since a majority of locals speak English. However, I was encouraged to take the Greek Language course.

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? 3 years of Spanish
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? Enroll in the Elementary Greek Language course

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

  • Local Students
  • 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?
  • Meeting New People
  • Excursions
  • Holiday Breaks/Time for Traveling
* What could be improved?
  • Course Selection
  • Class Times
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Don't overpack--I ended up bringing so much that I had to leave things behind.

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.