2012 Journey To Greece
The Seventh Annual
AHEPA / University of Indianapolis
Journey to Greece Program
Incorporating the Nemean Games and a special visit to the
Ecumenical Patriarch in Constantinople
Application Deadline Extended to May 31,2012
Session 1: June 22 -- July 6, 2012
Session 2: June 29 -- August 1, 2012
Sessions 1 & 2: June 22 -- August 1, 2012
AHEPA Journey to Greece Class of 2011
This summer, study at a fully accredited US University in Greece; learn about modern and ancient Greece. See and experience the beauty of the country and its people and earn transferable University credits.
Building on the solid foundation of the highly successful Journey to Greece programs that have been offered in every year since 2006, the AHEPA and the University of Indianapolis, Athens are once again offering an unforgettable learning experience for new and returning college age students. The Journey to Greece program, which is sponsored by the AHEPA, has been specially designed to immerse young students in a wonderful learning experience celebrating Greek society and culture. New courses, exciting excursions and special arrangements make the Journey especially attractive to returning students. The Program is coordinated by Past Supreme President, Dr. James F. Dimitriou, the Director of the Journey to Greece for AHEPA. In addition, AHEPA adult advisors will help supervise the students while they attend the program.
About the University of Indianapolis and its Athens Campus
History
Founded in 1902, the university of Indianapolis is a not-for-profit, comprehensive, co-educational University located in the capital city of Indianapolis, Indiana. To facilitate the ever- growing global community, the University of Indianapolis offers courses leading to Bachelor and Master degree programs at the University's campus in Athens, thereby increasing students’ exposure to cultural diversity through faculty and student exchanges.
The Athens Campus
The University of Indianapolis Athens [the only accredited American University in Greece fully owned and controlled by its U.S. parent], located at the foot of the Acropolis, was chartered in 1989, with the purpose of offering a quality American education in Greece. Since its inception, the University has grown to become one of the leaders in higher education in Greece. Its programs are, and will continue to be, designed to offer tomorrow’s leaders effective solutions in a professional environment. The University of Indianapolis Athens offers 29 undergraduate programs and 10 graduate programs in Athens.
The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Schools and Colleges (NCASC) accredits the University of Indianapolis.
Further, prestigious accreditation bodies in their respective fields accredit the various schools/departments of the University.
The AHEPA/University of Indianapolis Journey to Greece 2012 Programs
The Order of AHEPA has produced this program with the University of Indianapolis.
The Journey to Greece will run in three sessions in 2012:
- Session 1: June 22 -- July 6
- Session 2: June 29 -- August 1
- Sessions 1 & 2: June 22 -- August 1
Students will depart from the US July 21 to arrive in Athens June 22 for session 1 and sessions 1 & 2; June 28 to arrive in Athens June 29 for session 2. Students arriving in accordance with the instructions provided will be met at the Athens airport and transported by private coach to the UINDY Campus. Session one students will be transferred to Nemea to begin their educational adventure Regular detailed information will be sent to all students and parents after students have been accepted into the Journey to Greece program. All applications will be processed by AHEPA Headquarters, 1909 Q Street, NW, Suite 500, Washington, DC, 20009. Additional information will be posted at the AHEPA website: www.ahepa.org/journey. Questions regarding the program should be addressed to: Dr. James F. Dimitriou, Director JTG at jfdplato@aol.com or via phone (310) 704-4681.
Students attending the program will be housed in shared rooms in specially selected, university apartments in very close proximity to the University in the Plaka area of Athens. Housing will include kitchen facilities, air conditioned or fan equipped rooms, laundry facilities, Internet and TV. A 3/4 star Hotel (breakfast included) option is also available. The AHEPA Program Director, the AHEPA Advisors, graduate student Resident Advisors and University Counselors will be on hand to ensure the student’s welfare.
Monday through Friday, lunch will be served at a nearby taverna selected for our students. Students will be provided with vouchers and will have a choice regarding their main course. The daily lunch will also serve as the daily meeting for our briefings and program information. Discounted meal prices will be arranged if students wish to have dinner at the same restaurant.
Courses, Transcripts and Transfer Credits
With its extraordinary artistic, intellectual and cultural heritage, Athens is richly endowed with resources for formal study and experiential learning. The museums at the Acropolis and the ancient Agora, as well as the National Archaeological Museum, the new Acropolis Museum, the Cycladic Museum, and the Benaki collections are within minutes of the facilities of the University of Indianapolis, Athens Campus.
Arriving in Athens all students will undergo a full day orientation by the university and a tour of the surrounding area to familiarize our students with both University procedures and living in Athens. The orientation and welcome reception will help our students get to know their environment and welcome them to Athens. All students will attend classes each day from Monday to Friday. Special arrangements will be made for our students to make several very meaningful visits and excursions during their stay!
Students must have their local school address and counselor’s contact information to be sure that their transcripts are sent to the proper place. It is strongly recommended that all students show the syllabus of the courses they select to their academic advisor to be sure that their university approves the credits. Transcripts are sent from the home campus directly their school.
All classes offered in both Session #1 and Session #2 will not only provide an unforgettable learning experience but will also provide students with 3 transferable university credits per course. Academic credit is transferred to a student’s home institution by an official transcript issued by the University of Indianapolis. Students attending both sessions will be able to earn a total of 9 transferable university semester units of credit.
Courses will incorporate visits to the archaeological sites and museums. Students will also benefit from use of the University Library, Computer lab, including Internet access, and the magnificent University of Indianapolis Cultural Center located at the Roman Agora in the midst of the ancient ruins of Athens.
The University will arrange meetings with dignitaries in Athens and invite speakers to further enhance the learning experience throughout their stay.
Important Notes:
- Students will sign-up for classes on a first come first serve basis and classes will close when maximum numbers are reached.
- All students must provide evidence of good academic standing (official transcript or official letter) and a GPA 3.0 will normally be required for University students and 3.25 for high school applicants (exceptions may be granted only at the Director’s discretion).
- High School applicants must also provide a letter from their Principal stating that they are capable of handling University level work.
- Students are advised to present course descriptions to their Universities for approval to be sure course credits will count towards their degrees.
- Any questions should be directed to Dr. James F. Dimitriou, Program Director.
Session 1
1. Courses
Students take the 3cr course:
- CSL 450: Undergraduate Community Project
- SOC 401: Undergraduate Community Project
Session one students will enroll in this course and offer their volunteer services at the Nemean Games
2. Excursions
All of the special excursions, are designed with learning in mind as much as having fun, form an integral part of the program:
(1) Nemean Games and Ancient Sites of the Peloponnese
Guided by scholars, students will immerse themselves in the lives of ancient Greeks and will fill their minds with art, politics, culture and mythology that defined Greece. This is especially true of the Nemean games which historically were held both the year before and the year after the Olympic Games. Like the Olympic Games, they were held in honor of Zeus. This is a unique opportunity to experience the revival of an ancient Greek event first hand.
Days One and Two
Heading south out of Athens the tour passes over the Corinth Canal where large vessels are towed by tug boats through the narrow channel. On to Nemean where the first two days of this tour will be spent. Our destination is the Nemean games, a unique event and a unique opportunity for students to enjoy and learn of the origins of some of Greece’s greatest traditions.
Day Three
Passing through the beautiful city of Nafplio on the way back to Athens, the tour stops to visit the magnificent castle - Palamidi - where Kolokotronis was held prisoner. After lunch in Nafplio we travel on to Epidavros and the Ancient theatre, known for its incredible acoustics, and host to many internationally renown artists -- Maria Callas amongst them. Then the return journey takes us back through Corinth and the road to Athens.
(2) Northern Greece and Constantinople
Day One
Depart for Kalambaka, a small Town situated at the foot of the Meteora complex. Visit Meteora - among striking scenery, perched on top of huge rocks which seem to be suspended in mid-air, stand ageless Monasteries, where you can see exquisite specimens of Byzantine Art. Our overnight stay is in Kalambaka.
Day Two
Depart from Kalambaka, drive through the plain of Thessaly and the valley of Tempi, arrive and visit the Archaeological Site of Dion. Admire also the gigantic figure of Mount Olympus, the highest mountain in Greece and home of the 12 Gods of Mythology. After the visit, depart for Thessaloniki, the city that throughout the era of the Byzantine Empire was the "co-reigning" city, second in population and prestige only to Constantinople (Istanbul). Visit unique monuments and feel the glorious Byzantine past in some of the oldest and most characteristic churches of the Christian world as well as in the museum of Byzantine Culture, awarded with the Council of Europe's Museum Prize for the year 2005. Rest of the day at leisure, to enjoy time in the lively centre of the city. Dinner and overnight in Thessaloniki.
Day Three
Depart in the morning for an unique approach to historical Macedonia. First stop at Veria (Biblical Beroea) to visit Saint Paul’s Vema, and then stroll through the old Jewish neighbourhood and the colourful market area. A walk in the city where past is present and around. Then proceed to Naoussa, to a site of exceptional beauty and importance: Aristotle’s School, the impressive scenery where the great philosopher taught the doctrines of morals and politics’ to Alexander and the Macedonian youths. Only a few miles away is picturesque Edessa, where we see the town’s famous landmark, the waterfalls. Then, proceed to Pella, the capital of Alexander the Great. See the exquisite floor mosaics of the 4th century B.C villas in situ as well as the local museum. After the visit depart for Komotini for dinner and overnight.
Days Four and Five
On day four, depart early morning for Constantinople. Meet the Ecumenical Patriarch, His All Holiness Bartholomew I, and visit Agia Sofia, view the magnificent city and the architecture. Dinner and overnight in the city. In the morning of day five depart in the evening for Kavala.
Day Six
Drive to Vergina, to live the experience of a visit to the unique museum,
created in the Great Tumulus covering the royal tombs of Macedonia. See the astonishing findings form the tomb of King Phillip II, Alexander's father, and feel the thrill of one of the greatest discoveries of the 20th century. After the visit we will start driving south through Thessaly, Lamia, Thermopylae (see the Leonida's monument) and Thebes. Arrive in Athens late in the afternoon.
Session 2
1. Courses
Students choose two 3cr courses from:
- GRK 106: Elementary Modern Greek II
- COMM 431-23: Greek Foreign Policy and Mass Media
- PSCI 480-36: Greek Foreign Policy and Mass Media
- IREL 480-8: Greek Foreign Policy and Mass Media
- REL 299-2: Mysteries & Philosophy of Antiquity
- PHIL 299-7: Mysteries & Philosophy of Antiquity
- ANTH 430-2: Mysteries & Philosophy of Antiquity
- ART 480-2: Mysteries & Philosophy of Antiquity
2. Excursions
All of the special excursions, are designed with learning in mind as much as having fun, form an integral part of the program:
(2) Northern Greece and Constantinople
Day One
Depart for Kalambaka, a small Town situated at the foot of the Meteora complex. Visit Meteora - among striking scenery, perched on top of huge rocks which seem to be suspended in mid-air, stand ageless Monasteries, where you can see exquisite specimens of Byzantine Art. Our overnight stay is in Kalambaka.
Day Two
Depart from Kalambaka, drive through the plain of Thessaly and the valley of Tempi, arrive and visit the Archaeological Site of Dion. Admire also the gigantic figure of Mount Olympus, the highest mountain in Greece and home of the 12 Gods of Mythology. After the visit, depart for Thessaloniki, the city that throughout the era of the Byzantine Empire was the "co-reigning" city, second in population and prestige only to Constantinople (Istanbul). Visit unique monuments and feel the glorious Byzantine past in some of the oldest and most characteristic churches of the Christian world as well as in the museum of Byzantine Culture, awarded with the Council of Europe's Museum Prize for the year 2005. The rest of the day is at leisure, to enjoy time in the lively centre of the city. Dinner and overnight in Thessaloniki.
Day Three
Depart in the morning for an unique approach to historical Macedonia. First stop at Veria (Biblical Beroea) to visit Saint Paul’s Vema, and then stroll through the old Jewish neighborhood and the colorful market area. A walk in the city where past is present and around. Then proceed to Naoussa, to a site of exceptional beauty and importance: Aristotle’s School, the impressive scenery where the great philosopher taught the doctrines of morals and politics’ to Alexander and the Macedonian youths. Only a few miles away is picturesque Edessa, where we see the town’s famous landmark, the waterfalls. Then, proceed to Pella, the capital of Alexander the Great. See the exquisite floor mosaics of the 4th century B.C villas in situ as well as the local museum. After the visit depart for Komotini for dinner and overnight.
Days Four and Five
On day four, depart early morning for Constantinople. Meet the Ecumenical Patriarch, His All Holiness Bartholomew I, and visit Agia Sofia, view the magnificent city and see the architecture. Dinner and overnight in the city. Depart in the evening for Kavala.
Day Six
Drive to Vergina, to live the experience of a visit to the unique museum created in the Great Tumulus covering the royal tombs of Macedonia. See the astonishing findings form the tomb of King Phillip II, Alexander's father, and feel the thrill of one of the greatest discoveries of the 20th century. After the visit we will start driving south through Thessaly, Lamia, Thermopylae (see the Leonida's monument) and Thebes. Arrive in Athens late in the afternoon.
(2) Three Day Land Excursion: Delphi-Rio-Olympia-Lagadia-Epidavros- Corinth Canal
Guided by scholars, students will immerse themselves in the lives of ancient Greeks and will fill their minds with art, politics, culture and mythology that defined Greece.
Day One
Heading south out of Athens the tour passes over the Corinth Canal where large vessels are towed by tug boats through the narrow channel. On to Epidavros and the Ancient theatre there, known for its incredible acoustics, and host to many internationally renown artists -- Maria Callas amongst them. Traveling west across the Peloponnese the tour arrives at Mycenae. Here you will visit Agamemnon’s Palace, the famous Lion Gate and Treasury of Atreus.
The tour continues on to Olympia for the overnight stay.
Day Two
Dedicated to the father of the gods -- Zeus, Olympia is the birth-place of the Olympic Games. You will explore the temples of Zeus and Hera and the stadium and gymnasium where athletes competed. Then visit the museum where the masterpiece - Hermes of Praxiteles -- is housed.
After lunch at Olympia you will travel to Rio and cross the Corinthian Gulf via the magnificent new bridge to Antirrio, leaving the Peloponnesian peninsula behind you. The overnight stay is close to the beautiful town of Galixidi.
Day Three
In the morning departure is for Delphi where you will visit the archaeological site - Apollo’s sanctuary with the famous Oracle. Here the museum is rich in examples of Greek art including the masterpiece -- the Charioteer.
After lunch in Delphi you begin your return journey to Athens as the tour passes through Livadia and the picturesque village of Arachova on Mount Parnassos.
We plan many other activities for both sessions such as those that took place in 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010 and 2011:
- Embassy visit
- Archdiocese Visit
- Welcome Reception
- Pool Party
- Acropolis Visit
- Acropolis Museum Visit
- Benaki Museum Visit
- Archaeological Museum Visit
- Visit to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
- Visit to the Greek Parliament
- Temple of Poseidon, Sounion (Session 2)
- Farewell Reception
The Program fee includes:
- Tuition
- Transcripts
- Accommodations
- Lunches, from Monday -- Friday
- Access to the Library and Computer Facilities
- Group excursion, travel costs & lodging while in Greece
- Orientation
- Breakfast and Dinner on Excursions
COST PER PERSON FOR BOOKINGS BEFORE April 30, 2012
Summary of Program Costs
1. Session one: June 22 -- July 6
Bookings before April 30, 2012 $2995
Plus Administration fee $ 150
Total $3145
3 star Hotel Option [1 per room]: add to total $750
3 star Hotel Option [2 per room]: add to total $480
2. Session two: June 28 -- August 1
Bookings before April 30, 2012 $3995
Plus Administration fee $ 150
Total $4145
3 star Hotel Option [1 per room]: add to total $2115
3 star Hotel Option [2 per room]: add to total $1365
3. Sessions one & two: June 22 -- August 1
Bookings before April 30, 2012 $6495
Plus Administration fee $ 200
Total $6695
3 star Hotel Option [1 per room]: add to total $2725
3 star Hotel Option [2 per room]: add to total $1795
Returning Students
Returning students will receive a discount of $100 for session 1, $200 for session 2 and $350 when booking both sessions.
Payment Terms
- $500 deposit is required when booking for each session
- Final payment of the balance is due 30 days prior to departure.
- A $150 payment surcharge will be applied to all bookings made after April 30, 2012.
- All payments are made to “AHEPA Journey to Greece.” Checks and credit cards are accepted. Payments are made to: AHEPA Journey to Greece, Suite 500, 1909 Q Street, NW, Washington, DC 20009
N.B. Refundable Housing Deposits of $150 per student are required from each student and will be payable in Athens. This can be presented in the form of personal checks which will not be cashed unless a penalty is
warranted.
Refund policy
- Cancellations before May 31 will receive a refund of 100% of the amount paid less the Administration fee and deposit*
- Cancellations after May 31 will receive a refund of 50% of the amount paid less the AHEPA Administration fee and deposit*
- Cancellations made after the 30 days before departure date, are subject to 100% non refundable status.
*Less any transfer or bank charges incurred.
**Important Notes**
It is mandatory for all participants to purchase travel insurance to cover any cancellations.
Insurance is not included. All students are required to have a travel insurance package to include cancellation insurance, health, baggage etc.
The Order of AHEPA will not provide Group Flights for this program. Each participant is responsible to purchase their own flight arrangements, to be coordinated with the arrival in Athens with the session chosen.
Downloads:
Retrace the 2011 Journey Online!
You can retrace the daily steps of the AHEPA Journey to Greece Class of 2010 online! Download student produced ebulletins from the program or visit the Journey to Greece Blog for daily journal entries with photos and videos.
I. View the 2011 Journey to Greece PowerPoint Presentation (converted to PDF)
II. Visit the official 2011 Journey to Greece Blog
II. Read the 2011 Journey to Greece Bulletins
Downloads:
Retrace the 2010 Journey Online!
You can retrace the daily steps of the AHEPA Journey to Greece Class of 2010 online! Download student produced ebulletins from the program or visit the Journey to Greece Blog for daily journal entries with photos and videos.
2010 Journey to Greece Blog
AHEPA 2010 Journey to Greece Blog
2010 Journey to Greece Bulletins
Session 2: Vol. 5, Issue 5
2010 Class: Request UINDY Transcripts Here!