Dreaming and Learning in Athens October 10, 2026

By (Medicine, University of Wisconsin - Parkside) - abroad from 09/22/2024 to 10/19/2024 with

Cerca Abroad: Medical in Greece

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I gained extensive clinical knowledge and a better understanding of the medical profession. It was definitely a worthwhile experience that strengthened my career aspirations

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 1 month - 6 months

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The program was well-organized, flexible and educationally rewarding. Observing surgeries provided valuable insight into medical practice.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The local staff was welcoming and very helpful. They made the whole experience smooth and enjoyable.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The accommodation was comfortable and well-located, making it easy to get around Athens.

* Food:

Greek food was delicious, with plenty of fresh and affordable options to try.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I enjoyed exploring Greek culture, meeting new people and experiencing everyday life in Athens.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Health care in Athens seemed accessible and well-organized. I didn't experience any health issues or need any special vaccinations during my stay.

* Safety:

Athens is generally a safe city for students, and I encountered no safety issues during my stay. Basic precautions in busy touristic areas are always advisable

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

Hello, my name is Jeremy, I am from Wisconsin, America, I went to the University of Wisconsin- Parkside and it is my hope that one day- hopefully- I will become a physician. I chose this program because, one, I wanted to get experience in the healthcare field in a different or foreign country and, second of all, Greece has always been one of my dream destinations to visit. So, the answer is simple, I came to Greece. Athens has been wonderful so far, actually when I first came here I was very surprised as it was different from what I thought it would be, but it was absolutely wonderful. I also had some chances to visit some of the islands, which are absolutely gorgeous. I loved my time sightseeing here, having fun. I absolutely enjoyed all the surgeries and clinics I was able to follow and watch. It has been so insightful. I sometimes go home and write some summaries for myself about the day, my feelings and experience and I think that I genuinely learned a lot. When I first got here Cerca Abroad was so helpful and very informative and I was very welcomed. I appreciate everything that I have been going through. Like I said, I absolutely loved it.

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)

5.Very easily

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $120
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Shop at local supermarkets, plan your weekly expenses and explore free attractions around Athens.

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?

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Opportunities to observe real surgeries
  • Valuable insights into medical practice
  • Friendly and supportive programme staff
* What could be improved?
  • N/A
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I wish I had known how many opportunities there would be to observe different medical procedures.

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 Nearly Native or Trail Blazer
Craving the most authentic experience possible, perhaps you lived with a host family or really got in good with the locals. You may have felt confined by your program requirements and group excursions. Instead, you'd have preferred to plan your own trips, even skipping class to conduct your own 'field work.'