“Greece is a historic and beautiful country, with many advantages for international students. Getting around is easy, there’s a 50% discount for students on public transport, the islands like Santorini, Zakynthos, and Crete are stunning, and the people are friendly,” says Mohamed, a first-year student from Pakistan.
Although he had never visited Greece before, Mohamed chose Athens as his home for at least the next four years after doing careful research. “I read about the city, the university, and the standard of economics education. AUEB is one of the best in its field, not only in Greece but internationally,” he says proudly.
Herbert, from Rwanda, has always admired Ancient Greece. Fascinated by the Spartans, Leonidas, and his warriors, he was eager to walk in their footsteps. “I’ve always wanted to see these places, and soon I will—once my program allows,” he explains. Living in Kato Patissia, Herbert recalls with gratitude how the university helped him settle in: “I arrived alone. They found me temporary housing and helped me get settled. From day one, I felt like I belonged here.”
Ni, from Vietnam, was encouraged to study in Greece by her mother, who had previously lived in the country. “My mother always spoke with admiration for Athens and the university. She told me I’d have great professors and a life experience worth having,” Ni says.
Charlotte, from Milan, Italy, notes the cultural differences: “It’s different here than in my city. I’ll need to adapt, but I think it will be easy because the city feels warm and welcoming.” Beside her, Alex from Chicago shares his story: “I already lived in Greece and would pass by the university every day. When I saw they were launching the English program, I decided to enroll. The environment is ideal for someone who wants to pursue international business.”
These young people make up the first cohort of 26 students from 17 countries enrolled in AUEB’s English-language undergraduate program, which will award them a degree in International Business and Technology.
A Festive Welcome
The students were officially welcomed on Friday, October 10, in the “Eleftherios Venizelos” ceremonial hall. The atmosphere was celebratory, with music from the university orchestra and dance performances in traditional Greek costumes in the courtyard. At the same time, Greek first-year students were being welcomed in another hall, filling the campus with music, voices, and energy.
University President Professor Vasileios Vasdekis addressed the students, promising a rigorous, high-level program in a competitive international environment, alongside a life experience that will stay with them forever. Vice-President Professor Nancy Pouloudi presented the university’s history, its faculties, and its international collaborations, describing the students as pioneers taking part in a program offered for the first time in Greece and warmly welcoming them to their new “home.”
Professor Dimitris Manolopoulos, the architect and director of the program, highlighted the importance of multiculturalism, which was the driving force behind this ambitious initiative.
A Historic Moment for AUEB
University President Professor Vasileios Vasdekis
The launch of the English-language program was made possible by Law 4692/2020 (Government Gazette A’ 111), which allows Greek public universities to organize undergraduate programs in foreign languages to attract international students. AUEB seized this opportunity, creating a curriculum that integrates economics, business administration, technology, and international studies. All courses will be delivered entirely in English and specifically target students from abroad.
