Greece: Discovering the Hidden Truth Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The workload is not bad at all if you choose the right classes (but even if you don't its nothing compared to Middlebury). The grading system is really fair and straightforward. There is a midterm and a final in every class and professors are really easy to talk to (first name basis type stuff) and will let you know what they want with the work you turn in. Classes were really small (like 10-12 people per class) and this created a really laid-back and intimate learning environment. You are allowed 2 missed classes I think, but it depends on your professors personal rules as to whether or not this will affect your grade. Learning in Greece is more about big picture, personal input, and other less nit-picky things than at Middlebury. This program was a really nice break and allowed me to explore other academic areas I wouldn't have at Midd. It is relaxed, and you'll have lots of time to learn and do whatever you want.

On-site administration of your program

Support is ALWAYS there if you need it, but its not as comforting as you'd like it to be. Its like at Middlebury, you have advisors and people you can go to, but not best friends. You have to rely on yourself and your friends for emotional support and the staff is really really really good at covering everything else. I got everything I needed and more from them.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I LOVED my roommates and living in an apartment. It allows 100% freedom with your life abroad. You can have friends over and cook and do whatever you want. Apartments are all really close to class and to central Athens. Our university is about 2 blocks away from the first modern olympic stadium which was unreal. Blankets were provided, but we had to bring sheets and towels. My rooming experience was one of the reasons I had such an amazing time. You get to meet so many new people that really change how you view America as well.

The food is unreal. You can shop wherever and Jan helps you find a grocery store. I am gluten and lactose intolerant and had no problems whatsoever. Finding gluten free flour was hard, but there is a place in Athens (avocado) and a ton of health food stores. Shopping at the laiki is the best thing in the world. I will always shop at farmer's markets when possible now. I learned how to cook so many new things and loved it.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Orientation on the islands...unreal. So much fun. Class trips to Delphi and Meteora. You can do SO many fun and amazing things with this program.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Athens is safe. Despite all of the hype in the media, you can literally walk through a "riot" (which are actually just protests) and not be noticed. Healthcare is really easily accessible. The program knows how to get you into the Dr. easily and quickly. Healthcare in Greece was different than in America, but not in a bad way. They require chest x-rays and TB shots, but that's about it. I swim so I had to get a Dr. check-up/note to go in the pool too. Greece is really safe and teaches you to be independent in regards to your own safety. In other words, make smart choices even though your safety will not be violated.

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

We practiced in class. The best way is while eating out and while shopping at the laiki (farmer's market). People love to teach you new words too. So if you find a Greek who can speak english you will learn a lot of Greek this way. I definitely used Greek every day with Greeks. Most people speak very very little English--it is important to know Greek.

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• Apartment

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• Americans

• The freedom
• Trips
• The professors

• Less pointless classes
• More advice