Get Me to the Greeks! Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Classes were appropriate for an abroad program, as in they weren't too challenging or workload-heavy so that we could still have time to explore and travel on the weekends.

On-site administration of your program

CYA staff and administration were all super helpful answering questions concerning travel, transportation, safety, etc. They also had good recommendations for food and drink or local, upcoming events. Also, they planned field trips throughout the semester that brought us out of the classroom and were an educational way to see more of Greece apart from Athens and islands.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The CYA apartments are extremely close to the "campus" which was so convenient. It was also nice to have other students in your same building because it made making friends easier. Some of the apartments were tiny, for instance ours didn't have a common room and no more than 1 person could be in the kitchen at once, but they were fine other than that.

Food in Greece is UNREAL and super affordable, if not cheap. Going out to tavernas with a big group and sharing food and wine are some of my best memories, and when I bonded with my roommates the most. Gyros are so convenient and quick. I wish I could put tzatziki on everything! Another great thing about the Greek diet is that it is relatively healthy or light, compared to American cuisine.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

The local Greeks were so welcoming and inviting. They loved when we attempted to speak Greek, and also loved practicing their English with us. They are genuinely interested in your studies and why you are in their country, so they ask lots of questions. They definitely stare a lot, because they are a curious culture. They are also so generous, and we frequently (if not always) got free food or drinks when we were out. You will become friends with your local store owners, I guarantee it.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I went to the dentist once and it only cost me 50 euros- and that is a steal compared to what I pay in the US. It was a very efficient visit and my Swedish dentist was a doll. I had an emergency doctor make a home visit to me once because of an infection, and although it cost 90 euros he prescribed me medicine and checked in with me throughout the week until the infection passed. Pharmacies are on every corner and have affordable medicine at your fingertips. However, the pharmacists are not doctors so they can't prescribe or diagnose certain things.

So many people warned me about the "dangers" of Athens, but they were wrong. I felt safe walking by myself, even at night. I had heard of some students getting pick pocketed, but it never happened to me and won't happen to you if you are just aware of your surroundings. Athens is no more dangerous than US cities like NYC or Philly.

I am so happy with my decision to study in Greece- I think it was the perfect fit for me, but also the perfect fit for anyone. I had almost 0 complaints about my time abroad, and highly recommend this program. I want to go back!

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

I am comfortable economically, so I was able to eat out and take multiple trips throughout my semester abroad. It definitely does add up, however, especially weekend trips throughout Europe. The money I saved was definitely all spent, but it was worth it. Luckily, Greece was the cheapest place I visited, and I spent most of my time there! I could get groceries for the week for 30 euros, and souvenirs weren't pricey either!

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• Apartment

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• Americans

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• Americans

• Local Greeks
• Tavernas (the food)
• Affordability

• Laundry Services
• Field trips could be shorter
• Cafeteria could have more variety

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