Amazing and totally worth it Past Review

By (Kent State University) - abroad from 08/21/2016 to 12/17/2016 with

Webster University: Athens - Odyssey in Athens

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned how to travel on my own and be more outgoing. You also become less dependent on technology and learn to experience things first hand instead of through a screen. It was absolutely worthwhile.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 0-2 weeks

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The classes were very easy, just show up most of the time and you'll be fine/

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

Dina was fantastic! She is super helpful and sweet, and really made the experience great.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Apartments were good for the most part

* Food:

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I never went to a doctor or hospital, but when I was really sick Dina came to my apartment and brought me drinks and food.

* Safety:

Athens is a very safe city, just use your common sense when going out and you'll be fine. Also never leave your cell phone next to you when you're sitting in public, it's a pretty easy way to get it stolen.

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? $75-100
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Use skyscanner when booking trips, and don't go out to eat all the time.

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
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? Don't stress too much about it, everyone here speaks English

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

  • Local Students
  • Americans
  • International Students
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 area
  • The people
  • The trips
* What could be improved?
  • Better communication with the professors
  • More organization
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? It gets cold here! Bring some winter clothes. Also don't be afraid to do something completely out of your element, you'll regret more the things you didn't do than the things you did.

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 Networker
An active student leader, it was important for you to network abroad as well. Once overseas, you sought out student clubs, volunteered with local organizations, or attended community events. You encouraged your friends join you, and often considered how you could reflect your international experiences in a resume.