Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

A life altering experience, that changed my point of view of the world and made me lifelong friends. Past Review

By (Urban Planning, Western Washington University) for

Western Washington University: Ithaca, Greece - Sustainable Ithaca: Applied Studies in Mediterranean Sustainable Develop

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
It was amazing. I really think I will use it and direct myself towards sustainable village and neighborhood design.

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.

Nick is one of my main professors at home. He graded the same way he does at the university.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

It was great having our faculty leader have a home on the island and be from there. We really needed him since there was not a lot of english spoken in the village.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Great apartment. Really safe. Felt very comfortable. Like a second home.

* Food:

There is a lot of simplicity as far as food goes. We had kitchenettes and made a lot of our own food.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

The whole thing was memorable.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

We were very safe, and it anyone had a health issue Nick and his wife were very helpful.

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?
  • Everything.
* What could be improved?
  • I wish it was longer, or we were more exposed to the other side of the island.
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? You should go. Get loans if you have to. You will not regret it. Ithaca is a total change of pace from the rest of the world. You will come back with opened eyes, and a greater understanding of village culture.