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Eager to follow in the footsteps of a college student who studied abroad in Greece? We recently caught up with Taylor from Rowan University, who did a study abroad program in the mythological city of Athens during the spring semester.
Discover how Taylor’s experience with AIFS Abroad helped her expand her academic perspective and make meaningful friendships abroad!
Choosing Where to Study Abroad
With so many amazing study abroad destinations offered by AIFS Abroad, it can be hard to choose just one location! Here’s why Taylor chose to study abroad in Athens:
“I chose Athens because it’s always been a dream of mine to go to Greece! When I tell you it’s worth it… IT’S SO WORTH IT! I’m so thankful for all the experiences I’ve had, and all the wonderful people I met while studying abroad.”
Classes Abroad
Studying abroad gives you the chance to immerse yourself in an entirely new academic environment and take different classes that may not be offered at your home university. Taylor said that her classes in Athens were “a mix of Greek, international, and study abroad students,” offering her the chance to meet people from all over the world.
During her spring semester in Athens, Taylor took courses that aligned well with her communication studies major. As she explains, these courses helped shape her understanding of her major:
“My major is communications, so most of my classes are based around Greek terminology and philosophies on how we as people communicate. Also, being able to experience a different perspective in [terms of] way of life, is really helping me understand communication in a different context. I think that’s really cool!”
Making Friends Abroad
Whether you study abroad with friends from home or set out alone is up to you! Many college students like Taylor choose to start their adventure alone and make friends with locals and other AIFS Abroad students at their study abroad destination. Hear Taylor describe her experience making friends in Athens:
“I didn’t know anyone else before applying. A variety of group chats were made before going, and I was able to reach out to a lot of people before meeting them! While studying abroad, I have made so many friends from all over the states who are all wonderful people.”
Housing
Housing is included in all AIFS Abroad programs. Whether you’re bonding with locals in a homestay or meeting other AIFS Abroad participants in a shared apartment or dorm, AIFS Abroad’s included housing is a great way to forge new friendships, like Taylor did with her roommates:
“I loved all of my roommates and I’m so thankful to have met them.”
Tasting the Local Cuisine
Studying abroad is an excellent way to expand your culinary horizons and eat some amazing dishes you may have never tried before. Here’s what Taylor had to say about the food in Greece:
“The food is one of the best parts about being here! I’m already such a huge fan of Greek food, so having it all the time is amazing! Everything is so fresh, and I love learning new Greek dishes!”
Trips and Excursions
When you study abroad, you can use your free time to travel around your host country or visit neighboring nations. Also, AIFS Abroad offers cultural and social activities as well as trips and excursions with every program, so you can see amazing sights and have authentic cultural experiences, all while you get to know other AIFS Abroad participants. Below, Taylor describes her experiences with the AIFS Abroad excursions in Athens:
“There are a lot of excursions offered! Last week we went to the Acropolis and then enjoyed a wonderful lunch together! It’s so much fun seeing new places along with new people!”
Study Abroad Advice from Taylor
For anyone thinking of studying abroad, Taylor offers the following advice:
“My advice is that it may seem scary, going to a new country and not knowing what is going to happen, but it will be the best experience of your life… [Also], pack super light! You are going to do a lot of shopping, and if [you’re] like me, you might need another luggage for when you go back home.”
Are you ready to take the leap and study abroad like Taylor did in Athens? We’d love to help you start your journey!
Here at AIFS Abroad, we know a thing or two about helping college students study abroad. Our programs are incredibly inclusive, which takes a lot of the stress out of planning. From coordinating your housing to providing things like cultural and social activities, excursions, comprehensive insurance, 24/7 emergency support, on-site staff, and more, you’ll take comfort in knowing you’ll have support throughout your entire experience abroad.
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