What classes should I take in Greece?

This past spring, I had the incredible opportunity to study abroad in Athens, Greece, through CIS Abroad. As a Healthcare Management major at the University of Minnesota Duluth, I wanted an experience that would not only challenge me academically but also expose me to new perspectives on business and policy in an international context. CIS Abroad stood out to me because of their personalized support and commitment to student success. From the moment I began the application process, I felt guided and encouraged every step of the way, which made the transition to studying in a new country much smoother.

I attended the The American College of Greece, where I enrolled in four courses: Introduction to Marketing, Sustainable Finance, Real Estate Economics, and Health Care Policy and Governance. Each course offered a unique lens through which I could explore global systems, business practices, and policy issues—many of which intersect with my major in meaningful ways.

In Introduction to Marketing, we looked at the basics of marketing. Living and studying in Greece—a place with deep traditions and community values—made those lessons real. I loved working on group projects for global businesses, where collaborating with students from different countries showed how diverse perspectives spark more creative ideas.

Sustainable Finance also made a big impact. With sustainability becoming crucial in every field, learning how investors and companies use ESG criteria felt timely and important. It showed me how finance can actually drive positive change and got me thinking about how sustainable finance could influence healthcare—like how hospitals manage resources and reduce waste.

In Real Estate Economics, I saw how things like urban growth, demographics, and policy affect property markets. Studying in Athens made it especially interesting since we could see theory in action in a city balancing history and modern development.

Finally, Health Care Policy and Governance tied everything together. Comparing Greece’s healthcare system with those in the U.S. and Europe helped me understand how funding, policy, and culture shape patient care. It reminded me that managing healthcare isn’t just about business—it’s also about empathy and understanding the social side of health. I was also learning from someone who worked in the Greek Healthcare system.

If I had to choose a favorite course, it would be Health Care Policy and Governance. As someone preparing for a career in healthcare management, I found it incredibly valuable to learn about how different countries organize and deliver care. The discussions were engaging and often challenged my assumptions about what makes a healthcare system “effective.” It reinforced my desire to work in healthcare policy someday and contribute to building systems that are both efficient and equitable.

Overall, studying abroad in Athens was one of the most transformative experiences of my college career. The courses I took not only expanded my academic knowledge but also deepened my understanding of global perspectives in business and healthcare. Beyond the classroom, living in Greece taught me adaptability, independence, and appreciation for different ways of life. I returned home more confident, open-minded, and motivated to apply what I’ve learned to my future career in healthcare management.

Considering going to Greece? Check all the programs to Greece that we offer!

Blog by Ailie Kullhem, University of Minnesota - Duluth