Creative Writing & Culture
A Summer for Fun, Friends, and Your Future
Explore
Have fun discovering Athens through the eyes of a writer and storyteller.
Network
Meet new friends and professional writers. Build your own community.
Get Inspired
Launch your future today! Master literary techniques, refine your creative process, and build a standout writing portfolio.
The Destination
Welcome to Athens, the cradle of Western civilization and the birthplace of some of the greatest literary and philosophical minds.
Athens is a city where history and myth intertwine. Where the epic tales of Homer and revolutionary ideas of Aristotle have long influenced generations of writers. Today, ancient ruins and vibrant neighborhoods stand in stark contrast.
In Monastiraki, the ruins of Hadrian’s Library will fill you with awe. Nearby, the Roman Agora, a city square funded by Julius Caesar during Roman rule, will transport you to another time. In Plaka, one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods, winding narrow streets and whitewashed houses create a picture-perfect backdrop at the foot of the Acropolis. Throughout the city, locals mingle at cozy cafes and trendy shops.
Get a taste of Greek xenia, the deeply rooted cultural tradition of hospitality and generosity. Eat your fill of Greek delicacies like baklava, a sweet and syrupy phyllo pastry and moussaka, a lasagna-like dish with layers of beef, tomato sauce and potatoes or eggplant. Get ready for Athens to be your muse!
Cultural Awareness
CIEE wants all our students to feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to succeed while studying abroad. No matter where you choose to study abroad with CIEE, our staff will be on hand throughout your program to provide advice, resources, and support.
Sample Itinerary
Sample Activities
Just Imagine all the fun you'll have!
- Visit the Acropolis of Athens and marvel at the monumental ruins, including the Parthenon, a temple dedicated to a Greek goddess that has stood the test of time for over 2,000 years.
- Walk through the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, an ancient openair theater that has hosted performances intermittently since the 2nd Century A.D.
- Venture to the Ancient Agora, where the public once gathered for business, politics, and more. Today, the ruins of the ancient marketplace stand as a testament to an ancient way of life that inspired philosophers like Socrates and Plato.
- Go back in time as you walk through the historical neighborhoods of Anafiotika and Plaka, nestled on the Acropolis hill, where vibrant local life will open a window into Greek culture and inspire your creative writing.
- See the birthplace of Greek drama at the Theatre of Dionysus, where works by legendary playwrights like Sophocles and Euripides were performed. Stand where actors once captivated audiences and reflect on the power of storytelling over the ages.
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Eligibility
- Participants must be 14 years old and above.
- Program open to all current high school students: Freshmen, Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors.
- For scholarship eligibility requirements, please check our scholarship page.
For more information, refer to the detailed Program Essential Eligibility Criteria.
Dates & Fees
Application Fee
$25
Program scholarships and tuition include iNext Travel Insurance, but do not cover the cost of flights. Find additional details about what’s included with your tuition.
More questions? Find answers, get application support, sign up for virtual presentations, or contact us!
Program Fees
CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.
| Program Balance | $6,550 |
| Total Fees | $6,550 |
Financial Aid
CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.
Estimated Costs
Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.
Program Fees
CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.
| Program Balance | $6,550 |
| Total Fees | $6,550 |
Financial Aid
CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.
Estimated Costs
Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.
Ready to change your life?
What's Included
Interactive Classes
Housing
3 Meals/Day
(Dietary Needs Accommodated)
All Ground Transportation
(Once In-country)
Optional Flight Chaperone
(Flight Cost Not Included)
Pre-departure Advice and Orientation
Access to WIFI
(No international data plan or SIM card included)
All Cultural Activities and Excursions
Comprehensive Medical and Travel Protection
24/7 Emergency On-site Support
Our Staff
Francisco Diez
Regional Director of Operations for Europe
Francisco Diez is the Regional Director of Operations for Europe including Amsterdam, Berlin, Copenhagen, Florence, Milan, Tallinn, and Prague.
Program Leaders guide and support our High School Summer Abroad participants through every step of their program.
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