Philotimo Med Abroad

Program Reviews

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Elias
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Want to become a doctor? Try Philotimo

I’ve always been set on becoming a doctor, but this program made me even more sure. Shadowing real doctors and seeing how hospitals work up close was crazy cool. Director Stavros is the kind of person who makes learning exciting—he really cares about us and pushes us to ask questions and think like real medical students. Also, Larissa? Such an underrated city. It’s beautiful, full of history, and the food is out of this world. And Meteora? Absolutely insane. Best two weeks ever! I think if you're trying to go to Greece and participate in the program, do it during spring or summer.

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Nour
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

More than a shadowing experience

I went into this program expecting to learn about medicine, but I came out with so much more. Not only did we get real hospital experience, but we also got to explore Greece in a way that felt super personal. Meteora was stunning, and Larissa is honestly one of the most charming cities I’ve ever been to. Director Stavros? A legend. He made sure every single one of us felt included and learned as much as possible. The accommodations were great—clean, safe, and right in the center of everything. I would do this program again in a heartbeat

Pros
  • All perfect
  • Whether you want to grab a quick freddo espresso or sit down for an authentic Greek meal, Larissa has you covered.
Cons
  • Need more time here
Response from Philotimo Med Abroad

Thank you for your kind words! We're thrilled you had an amazing experience with Philotimo Med. Wishing you all the best in your medical journey!

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Kareem
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Highly Recommended

These two weeks in Greece were unreal. The program was way more than just shadowing doctors—it was a full-on adventure. We got real hospital experience, met amazing people, and even got to explore Meteora, which looks straight out of a movie. Director Stavros is one of the best mentors ever—he’s so passionate and makes sure everyone is learning and having fun. The place we stayed at was super safe and close to all the best restaurants (Greek food is next level, by the way). Larissa is such a cool city, and I know I’ll be back someday

Pros
  • Larissa is a very easy city to get around on foot. Everything—from the hospitals to restaurants and cafes
  • Very nice structured
Cons
  • The program is intense, with a lot of time spent shadowing and learning. There’s still free time, but don’t expect a vacation—it’s meant to be an immersive medical experience.
  • If you visit during winter break, be prepared for chilly weather.
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Sonia
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Philotimo is the way to go!!!

I still can’t believe how much I learned in just one week. This was my first time leaving the U.S., and I was a little worried about traveling alone, but everything was so well organized that I felt safe the entire time. The hospital shadowing was incredible—I got to see things I never thought I’d experience as a high school student. But honestly, the best part was Director Stavros. He’s so passionate about medicine and education, and he makes sure every student gets the most out of the program. Also, Larissa is the kind of city that just makes you feel at home. I already want to go back!

Pros
  • Safe Hotel room with all amenities
  • English spoken everywhere at the hospitals
  • Learning experience
Cons
  • If you visit during winter break, be prepared for chilly weather. It’s not freezing, but Greece isn’t always warm year-round like people assume.
  • Larissa has great restaurants and cafes, but if you’re looking for lots of touristy souvenir shops, there aren'y any.
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William
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Philotimo Med is really a Philotimo

This program is hands down one of the best things I’ve ever done. I’ve always been interested in medicine, but actually seeing doctors work in real hospitals was next-level. All doctors spoke English. But I think we all learned Greek. Director Stavros is a legend—he’s so dedicated and really makes you feel like you belong there. Also, Greece in the winter? Perfect. The weather was great, the accommodations were super nice, and Larissa is such a hidden gem. If you’re even considering doing this program, just go for it. You won’t regret it

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Martika
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Spending a week in Greece during my winter break was a dream

This was my first time out of the country, but everything about the program made me feel safe and comfortable. Shadowing doctors in a real hospital was an insane experience—I learned so much in just a few days. We travel to Meteora, Asclipiou and Trikala as our organized excursion. We had dinner in one of the most rustic and beautiful restaurants ever.

But what really made this program special was Director Stavros. He’s so passionate and just genuinely loves teaching. Plus, the place we stayed at was clean and close to some amazing restaurants. Larissa totally stole my heart!

Pros
  • Unlike tourist-heavy cities, Larissa gives you a chance to experience Greece like a local.
  • Everyone spoke english
Cons
  • If you visit during winter break, be prepared for chilly weather.
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Karina
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

As a high school student passionate about medicine

This program was honestly one of the best experiences of my life. It was my first time traveling abroad, and I was a little nervous, but from the moment I landed in Greece, I felt completely safe and welcomed. Director Stavros is amazing—he genuinely cares about every student and makes sure we’re all learning and having a great time. The hospital shadowing was super eye-opening, and I got to see real doctors in action. Also, Larissa is such a cool city—great food, super friendly people, and just a really chill vibe. I already miss it

Pros
  • Larissa is a very easy city to get around on foot. Everything—from the hospitals to restaurants and cafes—is close by, so you don’t have to worry about complicated transportation.
  • Amazing Food & Coffee
  • When you’re not shadowing doctors, you can visit museums, archaeological sites
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Ava
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Best Two Weeks in Greece: Premed Shadowing Dream!

I just wrapped up the Philotimo Shadowing program in Greece and WOW. It was so much more than I expected. Getting to observe surgeries and interact with real patients was such a cool opportunity. The best part though? The food – I was obsessed with the feta cheese and tzatziki. Everything was in English, which made the experience super smooth. The accommodations were safe and comfy, and while the transportation to Larissa was a bit long, it was definitely worth it. This program made my premed dreams feel real! If you get the chance to do it, don’t hesitate!

Pros
  • Hands-on shadowing of surgeries and patient care – such a valuable experience for premed students.
  • English speaker
  • Got a better idea what's to be a doctor
Cons
  • Some of the procedures can be difficult to understand at first, but the staff is supportive.
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Samuel
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Surgical Observations, Greek Food, and Amazing Adventures!

This program was SO lit. I never imagined I’d get to shadow surgeons and interact with patients in such a hands-on way. It was super inspiring and educational. Plus, the Greek food is next level – I swear, I didn’t stop eating the whole time. The accommodation was safe, clean, and comfortable. I felt really taken care of. The transportation from the airport to Larissa is a long trip, but it gives you a great intro to the country, and once you’re there, it’s all chill. Honestly, if you’re premed, this is a must-do!

Pros
  • Unmatched opportunity to observe surgeries and learn from real-life experiences.
  • Very safe and comfortable accommodations that made me feel at ease.
Cons
  • Some of the medical terms were difficult to understand at first, but it got easier over time.
  • The packed schedule doesn’t leave much room for spontaneous sightseeing.
Response from Philotimo Med Abroad

Thank you for your kind words! We're thrilled you had an amazing experience with Philotimo Med. Wishing you all the best in your medical journey!

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Mia
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Life-Changing Shadowing Program in Greece: Don’t Miss This!

I’ve never had an experience like this before. The Philotimo Shadowing program in Greece was an absolute game-changer. The opportunity to shadow real surgeries, witness medical procedures, and talk to patients was priceless. And the best part? The food! Seriously, the gyros, moussaka, and fresh seafood were unreal. I’m definitely going back just for the food. The accommodations were super safe, clean, and perfect for a premed student. The transportation from the airport to Larissa was a bit of a haul, but once you get there, it’s all worth it. Highly recommend this program if you want to gain insight into medicine and experience Greek culture.

Pros
  • First-hand exposure to medical surgeries and patient care, which is invaluable for premed students.
  • Food was absolutely amazing – you’ll never eat better than in Greece.
Cons
  • Limited free time to explore other parts of Greece due to the tight schedule.
  • Sometimes the language barrier with patients can be a challenge, even though everything is in English.