Athens: Food, Nightlife and the People Past Review

By (Management, Eastern Illinois University) for

Webster University: Athens - Odyssey in Athens

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I've never been overseas in my life and this program opened my eyes into the world. I'm studying International Management and now I'm willing to go overseas to work. It was a great experience.

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 classes are fairly easy. The teachers know that your only there for a short amount of time and are helpful.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The program lets you experience the lifestyle of Greece, either in the classroom or outside the classroom.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The housing arrangement was great. The apartment is literally a 30 second walk to class. The school was right next to us. The neighborhood was very safe and I never felt like I was in danger. The neighbors were very friendly and never gave us a hard time. The apartment was furnished which was awesome. The nightlife never ends in Athens. For just .70 cents, you can take the train to Gazi/Keramikos where every street is full of nightclubs, bars, lounges and restaurants. Another option is to take the tram or taxi to Glyfada. Glyfada is full with beach clubs and the atmosphere is great. Its fairly cheap to take the taxi if everyone pitches in.

* Food:

I've never had Greek food before and now I'm , obsessed with it. For students interested in this program, definitely try moussaka, Greek salad, spanakopita, pastitsio, souvlaki and gyros. Tavernas are a little bit expensive, but it's worth it. (Around 5-10 euros)

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

The program offers a 3-day excursion to Olympia, Epidavros, Mycenae, and Delphi. Its a once in a lifetime experience. You get to visit historical sites while on this trip. We also got invited to the graduation reception in a rooftop hotel, which had a great view of the whole city.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

The city of Athens was very safe. The only area to avoid at night is Omonia. Other than that, you should be fine.

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)

Language

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

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • The school/staff
  • Location: downtown Athens and everything is close
* What could be improved?
  • Everything was good
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Any type of student willing to experience a different type of culture is suitable for this program.