Greece: Expect the Unexpected: The 4 months that changed my life! Past Review

By (History, The Catholic University of America) for

CYA (College Year in Athens) - Semester/Academic Year Program

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Most definitely, hands down, the most worthwhile investment I ever made.

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.

Work load was doable and taught me so much about so many things hands on

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The fact that this is a small institution was actually a positive thing because the staff and administrators were all so friendly and knew you by name. They were available for any suggestion as well. I usually did my work in my apartment, but the lounge and computer room they provided were sufficient. The library is kind of small, but we did have access to the American School Library as well. The education system there is quite different, but I don't think it affected my schooling while I was there. In a way, I felt like I learned more there in 4 months then I had in 2 semesters in the states. My experience exceeded my expectations. I was hesitant going in and being the only CUA student there, but I feel like that only helped my experience more. I gained a new sense of independence and maturity as well as being able to meet some of the best people.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

We needed to bring sheets, but other than that everything was there for us. I lived with four other girls in a three room apartment with a bathroom, kitchen, living room, and balcony. I was in one of the doubles, which worked out perfectly. I wouldn't have changed anything about my living arrangements - I got along well with all my roommates, we were in one of the nicest areas in Athens, and our complex was safe and clean. One thing I liked the most was that we were neighbors with locals and not just other students from our program. At first, the walk to and from school was a hassle because we were up on a mountain and it was a farther walk, but after getting used to it - it was sometimes the highlight of my day. We walked everywhere and the area was accessible.

* Food:

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Field trips so Crete and the Peloponnese were great ways to understand the information we were learning in class

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

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

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)

Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Remember, that Greece is prime location to travel around Europe - so if you plan on traveling - budget your money well. I would say probably 30 - 50 Euros a week for food and social expenses.

Language

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? None
If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition?

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans

A Look Back

* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I think any type of student would benefit, as long as you are willing to do the work, you will love CYA. If you have any inkling about going abroad, don't ponder on it, just do it. It was probably the best decision I ever made.

Individual Course Reviews

Course Name/Rating:

Ancient Greek Athletics

Course Department: H355
Instructor: Nigel Kennell
Instruction Language: English
Comments: Really interesting and amazing to explore the beginnings of athletics
Credit Transfer Issues:
Course Name/Rating:

Development of Athenian Democracy

Course Department: H411
Instructor: Nigel Kennell
Instruction Language: English
Comments: This course was my most challenging, but overall, it well worth it because I achieved so much
Credit Transfer Issues:
Course Name/Rating:

Intro to Modern Greek

Course Department: M101
Instructor: Eleni Karvouni
Instruction Language: Greek
Comments: I am so happy that I took this class! Not only did I actually learn Greek, but Karvouni was a great person to go to with any problems or questions regarding the Greek lifestyle! I had a blast in her class, she really wanted us to learn as much as we could in the 4 months. I was hesitant having it every day, but it made it that much easier to comprehend the language and put it to use quicker.
Credit Transfer Issues:
Course Name/Rating:

Archeology of Athens

Course Department:
Instructor: David Scahill
Instruction Language: English
Comments: It was such an amazing opportunity to have class at the Acropolis, IN the Parthenon, or the Agora every day. Mr. Scahill was well-rounded with the information he presented.
Credit Transfer Issues:
Course Name/Rating:

Development of Athenian Democracy

Course Department: E333
Instructor: Aimee Placas
Instruction Language: English
Comments: This course was probably one of my favorite classes because it was really interesting to delve into the Greek culture and learn more about their social and cultural customs. Aimee has a passion for this type of study which made the class a lot more enjoyable.
Credit Transfer Issues: