Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Best Semester Ever Past Review

By (Webster University) - abroad from 08/26/2018 to 12/22/2018 with

Webster University: Athens - Odyssey in Athens

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I've learned confidence, independence, and to let go of my fears. My experiences here have really turned me into a better person and more of a person I want to me.

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.

The classes were not super difficult, but I'd say it depends on the course. The language courses were probably the most challenging for me.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The people here have been super helpful and supportive.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I love having a room so close to campus and in such a nice area of Athens.

* Food:

The food here is amazing and so much better for you than in the U.S. I enjoyed the opportunity to learn how to make many traditional Greek dishes that I an bring home and share with my family from our cuisine class.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I got involved volunteering at Archelon and met people from not just Greece, but from all over Europe. The locals are friendly for the most part and there is so much to see. I found it best to take walks out on my own and just live the way the Greeks do. You become immersed in the culture here so easily if you just put yourself out there.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

All of my healthcare was paid for by the insurance plan from my university and my hospital day went well. I had no issues whatsoever.

* Safety:

This city is fairly safe as long as you keep track of your belongings and watch yourself. There really isn't any violent crime that I've seen, but there is pickpocketing. My phone was stolen on the metro unfortunately.

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

I already have chosen the same program and am coming back in the spring of 2019. I am in love with the people and the atmosphere here. Athens has become my home away from home.

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)

Athens is fairly cheap. It doesn't cost too much to live here if you spend your money wisely and in some places, you can get student discounts.

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? A little under $100
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Shop at the open markets and the meat market or buy in bulk. This will save you so much money in the end.

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

This was my favorite class in the program.

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? Never had any courses
How many hours per day did you use the language? 0
Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? Greek people are very appreciative when you try to speak their language. They encourage you to keep trying. Try it at restaurants and at the grocery store if you can.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • 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?
  • Language programs
  • Excursions
  • Volunteer opportunities
* What could be improved?
  • Student counseling services
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? This place isn't as scary as some people make it out to be. I was told that I would need to be completely cautious and with my guard up, but this isn't completely true. I feel safer in Athens than I do in my home town.

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.