Program Reviews

Studying abroad with HISA is the best decision that I've ever made. I had the most inspiring experiences, met some of my best friends, and was able to fulfill my dream of living on a beautiful Greek island.
I always loved going to class and was never stressed about my school work because the professors care much more about inspiring us to think rather than assigning loads of homework.
I spent my weekends exploring Paros' beautiful beaches and mountains and traveling to other awe inspiring islands. Our mid-semester trip to Turkey is one that I will never forget.
I spend every day wishing I was back in Paros and I would urge anyone who is even slightly interested in the program to apply!

This was the most exciting semester of my life. I made amazing friends, I got to travel to Italy and Ireland. I could not have asked for a better abroad experience! The University of Roehampton is notorious for t's parties so if that is what you are looking for then this school is absolutely perfect for you. If you want more of an academic challenge I do not recommend it though. Athena was extremely helpful and dealt with all my nagging questions, and my neurotic need to know every little detail. I could not thank them enough for giving me a chance at this adventure.

In Spring 2014 I studied abroad in Paros Island, Greece with Athena. Not to be cliche about it, because it's absolutely true, but it was a life changing experience for me! From start to finish, I had people both from Athena and HISA, the school abroad, helping me out. The application process was easy because the people from Athena would get in touch with me to see how I was doing and I knew they were always available if I had questions.
Paros Island was an inspirational paradise for me! Even with the course load, I had time to relax on the beach or work on projects I hadn't had the time for before. The faculty on Paros were also very helpful with whatever I needed. I didn't just gain friendships with the girls in my program, I also grew close to my professors as well. Sigrid, my literature teacher, always lit up when we had class discussions, so I knew she loved what she was doing and I loved taking her class because of it. George, my creative writing teacher, was instrumental in helping me start to write the draft of my novel. He was flexible with all of us in his class and even scheduled one on one meetings with us individually to help us with our writing.
Study abroad in general is guaranteed to be an incredible experience, and studying abroad on Paros Island, Greece is no exception because everyone involved goes above and beyond to make it the best experience for you, personally!

I would wake up around 7:00am each morning, to go for a jog on the ledges of the cliffs. The air was warm, the water baby blue and the wind blowing at the perfect speed. My classes did not start until later in the day, so I would sit on the beach until they began. I took six classes and everyone was a learning experience. I enjoyed the classes discussion with my brilliant professor and classmates.
I enjoyed all of the excision to the different Islands and the week trip to Turkey. Delos, is a place that will never be forgotten.

I would recommend Athena Florence program in a heartbeat. Going to Florence through Athena was a life changing experience and one I will never forget. The staff in the office here in the U.S. was beyond helpful. They made sure all the legalities were handled properly and when issues arose with the visa process they responded effectively and in a timely manner to ensure the process didn't drag on.
I remember a few days before leaving the U.S. for Florence I received a phone call from my contact at Athena to make sure everything was set to go and to ensure I had all the contacts I needed for both the U.S. contacts as well as the Athena representative in Florence. Once I got to Florence, the staff were so helpful in making sure everything was they way it should be. In addition the advisors at LdM ensured that the transition was as easy as possible. In addition, while I was over in Florence I never once had an issue reaching my US Athena contact via email.
As far as the personal experience, it was a time and growth and change for me and Athena made it perfect! I would definitely use them again!!

Living just outside of London was the best! We were able to catch a bus to the tube to get into central London and explore Piccadilly Circus and other great places. I went to class three days a week and traveled around the UK and Europe on the weekends. Athena Abroad was so helpful throughout the entire process, both before and during my time abroad. I couldn't have done it without their help. If personal attention is what you what, go with Athena!

This program was fantastic! They were with me every step of the way and they were very organized which made me feel comfortable and well taken care of. We had a great apartment and school and the city in general was very safe and walk-able. I gained such a perspective of other cultures as well as my own. I realized how fortunate I am to have had this opportunity and I hope that many others can share in the Florence study abroad experience or in their own journey similar to this. If you have the chance take it and learn something new such as a perspective, skill, or something about yourself, you won't regret it! Explore, experience wanderlust and give yourself the opportunity to say "I have lived."

I absolutely loved every second while being abroad. My program was extremely helpful the entire time and I felt was always there if I needed them. I ate incredible food, I traveled a ton, and met amazing people. Florence is such a beautiful city, and it is a city that is so easy to get lost in. I would go back in a heart beat if I could, and one day I will!

Living in Florence, Italy for 4 months was something I'll never forget. The city is beautiful, the food is obviously amazing, and I don't think the local people quite understand how incredible it is to live in a city built over 500 years ago. The experience was overwhelmingly brilliant, most of the time I forgot I was even at school! Athena Study Abroad was pivotal in my success in Florence, and they really helped me every step of the way to have a safe and effective semester!

Ireland could not of been more perfect. It is the best country in the world. From its beautiful scenery, to its bumping nightlife, you can't ask for a better place. If you're think of going abroad, choose Dublin with Athena.