Safe Housing, Shadowing, and a Friendly Environment

Philotimo Med made my gap year unforgettable. The accommodations were clean, safe, and centrally located, which allowed us to explore Larissa’s vibrant culture during our free time. Safety was a top priority, and I always felt comfortable, even when walking back late after a group dinner. Shadowing a dentist was one of the most enriching aspects of the program. I got to observe how dental professionals here approach pediatric care, which gave me new insights into patient communication and care techniques. Stavros’s jokes, like the one about the ‘Greek time’ when we were running late, always kept us smiling and made even the most mundane tasks fun. One day, he convinced us that he could predict the weather just by looking at the olives in his salad—it was hilarious! The kids were so sweet, and I loved helping them with their English lessons. I’d bring more comfortable shoes next time since I walked everywhere, from the shelter to the markets and nearby cafes. But I wouldn’t trade the amazing group meals, where we often cooked together, for anything.