Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Connecting Dentistry and Heritage October 23, 2026

By (Dentistry, McMaster University) - abroad from 05/12/2024 to 05/30/2024 with

Cerca Abroad: Dental Internships in Greece

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I gained a different understanding of dentistry in a different healthcare setting, making the experience truly worthwhile

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 clinical observations offered a valuable perspective on the realities of dental practice.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The program was efficiently coordinated , with clear communication and reliable support throughout

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

My stay was pleasant , with excellent facilities and a convenient location

* Food:

Greek cuisine was a delightful part of my stay, with plenty of fresh and flavorful dishes.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Connecting with local people made the cultural experience especially rewarding.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I had no healthcare concerns during my stay and no additional vaccinations were required.

* Safety:

I felt safe and at ease throughout my time in Athens.

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

Hi, my name is Brianna, I am from Toronto, Canada. I decided to join Cerca Abroad, specifically their dental shadowing program, to gain more experience in the dental profession. I also decided to choose this program because of my Greek heritage roots. This opportunity has not only allowed me to connect with the Greek community, but also to explore many different areas of Athens, including trying different ethnic foods as well as exploring historic sites of Athens. The last couple of weeks I have been in the dental clinic shadowing many different procedures, including tooth extractions and root canal treatments as well as getting hands-on experience with the actual dentists themselves, practicing some surgical techniques as well as my own, personal canal treatment. Overall, I highly recommend this program to any students who are interested in pursuing dentistry in the future. The Cerca team has made this transition to Athens very smooth and they’re always willing to help you when you have questions. I also want to say I’m grateful to the staff and patients here who have come to the clinic here. Dr Costas has made this experience very memorable for us and he always answered our dental-related questions. For that reason, I highly recommend this program to anyone.

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)

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? 100$
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Take advantage of students discounts and explore local markets for affordable meals.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? No

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • International Students
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • International Students
About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with? 10+

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Insightful dental shadowing
  • Supportive staff
  • Cultural connection and exploration
* What could be improved?
  • N/A
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Nothing in particular comes to mind, as everything was well explained beforehand.

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.