Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

l life altering, extraordinary experience. Past Review

By (Liberal Arts, General Studies, New Mexico State University) - abroad from 09/03/2014 to 12/03/2014 with

Study Abroad Programs in Greece

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I gained an invaluable experience; an experience that taught me humility, patience, and understanding of the larger world. It the most worthwhile thing I've ever done.

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.

I attended HISA for their 2014 fall and 2015 spring semesters. I had the most amazing, life changing experience. The faculty members were kind, helpful, and highly intelligent; they care for their students, and will go above and beyond expectations to ensure student comfort and security. Paros offers beautiful landscapes and hiking trails for those who love the outdoors, and an active night scene for those who enjoy night life. The people who live on the island are friendly and giving, and the environment/culture is relaxed and laid-back. I will return to Paros the first chance I get!

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

Staff are always available, either at the school, or my phone and email. They are helpful and caring, and love to get to know their students.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I loved the housing! I got my own room, bathroom, full-sized bed, and kitchenette.

* Food:

Greek food is amazing, not to mention, food and beverages are cheap!

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I became friends with many locals on Paros, and after three months, I felt like a local.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Healthcare is affordable and easily accessible. When a student needed a doctor or hospital visit, there was always a faculty member willing and eager to accompany the student.

* Safety:

I have never been anywhere safer than Paros.

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)

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? 50-75 euro a week
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Cook in when you can, but don't forget to indulge in traditional local foods!

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
How much did the program encourage you to use the language?

0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? None
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Beginner
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? n/a
How many hours per day did you use the language?
Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? Take a class, speak with locals, and get a travel-sized phrase book/dictionary.

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
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?
  • The faculty
  • The food and culture
  • The classes
* What could be improved?
  • n/a
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? It's not America; the culture, traditions, and values are different. Come with an open mind, and a willingness to learn and adapt.

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 Avid Adventurer
The wardrobe you packed was better suited for a semester of camping than club hopping. Outdoorsy, you might forgo a crazy night out for an early all-day adventure. You'd rather take in the rich culture of an old town than the metropolis of a modern city, but for you getting off the grid is ideal.