CNS offers a unique, non-course medical shadowing opportunity in Thessaloniki, Greece. This immersive two-week program gives students the chance to observe healthcare professionals in real clinical settings while experiencing the rich culture, history, and daily life of one of Europe’s most vibrant cities. This program is designed to give students real-world insight into medical practice while fostering cross-cultural understanding and global awareness.
Program Highlights
- Shadow physicians in both clinical and surgical departments for 20 hours per week
- Participate in cultural excursions to historic sites like Mt. Olympus
- Enjoy group meals at highly rated local restaurants
- Stay in centrally located, fully furnished apartments
- Support from English-speaking site managers available 24/7
What's Included
- Daily hospital shadowing (~5 hours/day, 4 days/week)
- Shared apartments in centrally located apartments
- Weekly group meals (4 per week) and morning snacks
- One cultural excursion with lunch included
- Transportation to/from airport and bus pass
- Pre-departure orientation calls
- Certificate of participation (upon request)
2027 Session Dates - subject to change
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Session 1 |
May 08 – May 21 |
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Session 2 |
May 22 – June 04 |
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Session 3 |
June 05 – June 18 |
Sample Schedule – subject to change
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Saturday Arrival |
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Sunday |
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Monday – Thursday |
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Friday |
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Saturday-Sunday |
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Monday - Thursday |
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Friday Departure |
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| Schedules for shadowing are determined the day before. Hospital and surgery schedules change frequently. Students joining the shadowing program are expected to be flexible and adapt their schedules to hospital needs as necessary. |
Cost & Eligibility
- Participants must be current CNS undergraduates graduating in May 2027 or later
- Program fee: (airfare not included)
- Scholarship support is available — applicants can complete an additional essay in the application to be considered
- Students must provide proof of basic vaccinations and carry health, accident, and professional liability insurance
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Program costs estimated below are dependent on student preferences and subject to change
| Program fee - Estimate for 2027 - subject to change | TBD |
| Estimated Round-trip Airfare | $1,200-1,500 |
| Estimated Meals and Personal Expenses (not included in program fee) | $350 |
| UT International Emergency Insurance | $90 |
| Total estimated cost | $ |
Why Greece? Why this program?
Location: Thessaloniki, Greece
Thessaloniki is a city of students! Home to Aristotle University, the largest university in Greece and one of the largest in southeastern Europe, with around 80,000 students.
It is also known for its incredible food scene, vibrant nightlife, and welcoming locals. Historically, it was a major crossroads of Byzantine, Ottoman, and Jewish civilizations, and that layered past shows up everywhere: Roman ruins, Byzantine churches, and Ottoman-era markets all coexist in the city center. It is a truly lively and friendly place to visit.
What students are saying:
“It was such an INCREDIBLE experience, from shadowing so many different specialties, exploring Thessaloniki, learning the local culture and language, and trying all the new food. The most valuable part of this entire trip was becoming immersed in a completely foreign culture. As Americans, we are quite privileged on the global stage. This helped open my eyes to ways of life which I've never known here in the States”.
“Being able to shadow across multiple departments allowed me to be exposed to a variety of patient care methods and departments which was interesting and valuable”.
“It was really cool to see the differences and similarities in US-based vs Greek-based healthcare systems”.
“I learned that I am much more open to a surgical specialty than I thought. This experience will be invaluable for my PA school application”.
| This program is ideal for students interested in medicine, global health, and experiential learning abroad. It offers a unique chance to apply classroom knowledge in an international setting while building professional skills and cultural competency. |
Upcoming Info Sessions
Join up at this upcoming info session to learn more about the CNS Medical Shadowing in Greece program.
CNS Medical Shadowing in Greece Info Session - in person
Monday, September 21, 2026 from 12:00 - 1:00pm
Room WEL 2.110
Want to be notified when the application opens for this program? Follow the link below to join the interest list.
Want more guidance? CNS Undergraduates can make a “Study Abroad & International Opportunities Advising" Appointment with our team in 12twenty@Texas.