Athens: Exploring ancient sites within a modern culture. Past Review

By (Fine Art, Oregon State University) for

GEO: Athens - Study Abroad Programs Athens

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
There was such insight and innovation in the architecture and sculpture from the ancient Greek culture. It is breathtaking to walk around a large modern city and to see the ancient sites, like the Acropolis set above the city. The blend of ancient and modern is fascinating. I also enjoyed the contemporary art. The Greek people have a great sense of pride in their city and their history. I always felt welcome and I loved being infused into their culture. I already miss the wonderful foods!

Review Photos

GEO: Athens - Study Abroad Programs Athens Photo GEO: Athens - Study Abroad Programs Athens Photo GEO: Athens - Study Abroad Programs Athens Photo GEO: Athens - Study Abroad Programs Athens Photo

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 6 months+

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Greece is such a wonderful place to study art! Drawing and painting on location in this culturally rich city was an experience of a lifetime. Our instructor was very knowledgeable, patient, and gave positive critiques and feedback. The schedule was packed full of activities and visits to ancient sites. Looking back, I can't believe we did all we did in just three short weeks. I'd go back and do it all again without any hesitation!

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

I felt there was strong support from the staff at the Athens Center to meet the needs of the students. Our class size was small, and we felt like family there. My expectations were exceeded in the prompt and caring support while attending classes in Greece.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The program arranged housing in local apartments just two blocks from the Athens Center. I felt we were in a safe neighborhood. I was extremely thankful for air conditioning! I had wished there was internet in the rooms, but there was full access to a computer lab with computers, printers and free internet access at the Athens Center during open hours 8 am to 8 pm.

* Food:

I didn't have any dietary restrictions, and we were shown a variety of places that we could choose to eat for our meals. We were shown the grocery stores, inexpensive local dining, and even a local farmer's market that was held once a week at the end of our block. We usually stopped at a Greek bakery in the morning to pick up a snack as we walked from place to place. I felt we were able to enjoy a wide variety of places to eat.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

The first week we were in Athens, the Milan Orchestra was playing in the Odeion of Herodes Atticus at the Acropolis! Our instructor showed us how to buy student tickets to see this event. What an exciting experience. We also took a boat to stay on the island of Kea for a few days. It was a wonderful contrast to the busy city of Athens.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

Athens is a big city, and with the usual caution used in any big city, I felt very safe. We usually traveled in pairs or in a group, but during the day, I felt at ease spending some time on my own. We were given maps and of course shown how to use public transportation to get where we wanted to go.

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)

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

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  • N/A

A Look Back

* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Beginning and advanced art students will enjoy this study abroad. The climate is very warm, with considerable walking, so be sure to bring comfortable walking shoes! From quaint private gardens to ancient sites, there is so much to see, do and draw!