Field of study in Wageningen: Environmental Sciences (BES)
Study period exchange: 04/10/2021 until 25/02/2022
Country (exchange): Greece
City (exchange): Athens
University (exchange): Agricultural University of Athens
Faculty (exchange): Agricultural Sciences
2. Motivation for exchange
Why did you choose to go on study exchange?
I had heard lots of positive comments and stories from other students that decided to do their Minor abroad. Moreover, I wanted to experience the culture and studying in another country with other international students from all around the world.
What is the reason you chose for this country/university?
The main reason I chose for Greece and specifically Athens is my interest in ancient cultures and societies, and I thus wanted to see and experience what was left of the ancient Greek civilisation and culture. Additionally, the weather is great even during the winter and I wanted to spend my Minor somewhere warm.
3. Accessibility to reach destination
Do you have any tips to reach your exchange destination?
From Athens International Airport you have multiple options of going to the centre of Athens. You can take the blue line metro or the bus X95 which will both take you to the centre and they’re only 5 min walking from the airport.
4. University and studying
Could you provide some general information about the followed courses?
How is the study formalized?
There are not multiple periods like at the WUR, instead you have a lecture/tutorial/practical once or twice a week and they will give you small homework assignments. Examination was either a multiple-choice exam or based on essays that were written during the course as homework assignments. The academic level was quite low compared to the courses at the WUR and same goes for the workload which was appreciated during my stay.
What is the culture of the university?
Lecturers and TA’s were all nice and very approachable, both in person and via email. Engagement with local students was limited since they mostly speak Greek and even if we did have courses with them, they would converse in Greek with the teacher and each other.
What does the university offer the student additionally?
On the campus is a cafeteria which offers lunch and dinner for free, there is a gym you can use (you need permission from the doctor on campus first) and there is a library.
5. Housing-travelling-living
What are the possibilities for housing?
There is no housing on campus but there are lots of possibilities for student housing all throughout the city. You can use facebook groups which offer rooms or use StayInAthens which is a reliable and helpful organisation that rents many rooms specifically for international students. Average rent is around €300.
What is the culture of the country like?
People are much more relaxed and easy-going, there are no strict timetables and people don’t tend to rush for things. Also, they like to spend time in (front of) café’s, bars and restaurants where they will sit for long periods of time with friends and family to enjoy, listen to live music and drink.
Could you give a general price indication of the place of residence compared to living in Wageningen?
I rented a small private studio via StayInAthens and I paid €350 per month, which is cheaper than renting a private studio in Wageningen. For shared rooms the price is lower.
Could you give some information about public transport infrastructure?
They offer public transport cards at most metro stations that cost €13 per month for students (you need a student card from the host university or proof of admission). This card allows you to travel with bus, metro and tram throughout Athens. Taxi is also pretty cheap but only when using an app like Uber or Beat.
6. Free time
What are must-sees in the area?
Inside the city classic places like the Acropolis and Lycabettus hill are a must see, just as the national garden. Outside the city you can do day trips to Meteora, Delphi and Corinth which are all very beautiful. Also very nice are the islands which you can visit by ferry, especially nice on the warmer days.
What does not appear in the travel guide, but is worth a visit?
Hymettus hill is nice, its just outside the city and you can look over the skyline of Athens.
Do you have general tips and tricks about leisure time?
Definitely try to make some Greek friends/acquaintances that can show you around the city as they know all the nice spots. For international Erasmus parties Gazi is the place to be.
7. Challenges & best moment abroad
What was a challenge you have experienced?
The lack of organization and clarity was frustrating at first, as you’re unsure of what exactly you have to do and when. However, once you get used to this it is quite nice and relaxing.
What was your best memory abroad?
My trip to Delphi in November, it was off-season so it was almost empty yet the weather was still great.
