Odyssey in Athens: an experience of a lifetime! Past Review

By (psychology, Grand Valley State University) for

Webster University: Athens - Odyssey in Athens

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Study abroad in Athens was a life changing experience! I made many friends, American and Greek. I loved it so much I plan to go back next summer!!

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.

Classes were really easy, loved my professors! I took classes about Ancient Greece and learned a lot, not just in the classroom but also on field trips

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

Program size was really small; however, there were many other american students living in the same apartment complexes.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Lived with 7 other girls on a quaint street in Athens. It was the perfect location! I felt extremely safe and it was two doors down from the Athens Campus. The kitchen had all of the cookware we needed along with two fridges and there was also a laundry machine! Night life was a short cab ride away to Gazi or Glyfada if you're looking for clubs,and there are plenty of bars within walking distance.

* Food:

Never had Greek food before, it is really good! They eat a lot of pork and the gyros are exceptional!

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

went on an excursion with the program which was a great experience!! Weekends were free for us to plan our own trips- we went to the islands almost every weekend which was a great way to meet local Greeks and get outside of mainland Greece. Greek people are for the most part extremely helpful and friendly!

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

Felt extremely safe in Athens

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?

Select all that apply

  • Americans

A Look Back

* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? The program only includes one excursion which leaves you with a lot of spare time. If you like to go and explore other places this is perfect for you! Loved my time in Athens and can't wait to go back! Also, at first we had a lot of trouble finding places to go out at night- some good areas during the summer are Gazi and Glyfada (both are a short taxi ride from the apartments!)