The Real Greek Experience Past Review

By (Nursing., SUNY - College at Geneseo) for

Webster University: Athens - Odyssey in Athens

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Yes, I learned a lot about the country and the problems in the EU/Europe. It definitely made me appreciate all that I have in America.

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The workload was not much at all. I was able to gain a lot for the "Socio-Political Ambassadors Forum" where different Ambassadors to Greece came and spoke to our class about various issues of either their home country or global issues.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The program director was always available which was helpful.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* Food:

I wish our program had told us in advance that there was no "campus" and all the meals would be supplied by us.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

We went to a few historical sites, which were absolutely breathtaking. Also, the information you learn from the local citizens helps open your eyes.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

The city had a lot of theft, but as long as you held onto your stuff and were aware of your surroundings, you were fine.

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? No

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? about 100 euros on food. The largest expense came from going to see different sites and parts of Greece. (Such as ferry tickets, bus tickets, etc.)
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Look into travel expenses between countries as well.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? None
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? None
If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition?

Language acquisition improvement?

Most people were able to speak English, our Greek language class did not move very rapidly though.

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

A Look Back

* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Just look into the program and ASK QUESTIONS. If you don't mind spending more on a program, then perhaps look into another program in Greece. Either way, how ever much money you plan on spending, plan on spending more than that.