International Co-op

Co-op on the Greek Island of Crete

The Vidalakis Family Cretan Scholars Program is designed to give undergraduate students an exciting and meaningful co-op education experience on the island of Crete. Students are able to take advantage of this opportunity due to the generosity of Dr. Nicholas Vidalakis and his wife Nancy, who are of Cretan descent. They wanted students to realize the many advantages of a co-op abroad without worrying about how they could afford the costs of travel and housing associated with working overseas. The program awards each Vidalakis scholar a $5,000.00 stipend.

Students of all majors are eligible to apply for the program. Students of Cretan or Greek origin are especially encouraged to take advantage of this unique opportunity to explore their cultural roots. This is a wonderful opportunity to learn about the culture and history of Crete. Drexel strongly encourages interested students to enroll in classes in Greek language and culture through the Greek Studies Department at Drexel. Students who do not take these courses will be required to complete them at the Technological Educational Institute (TEI) of Crete.

There are several requirements for being accepted into this competitive program:

• Students must write a personal essay explaining their interest in Crete
• Provide two letters of recommendation
• Students' records should demonstrate scholarship, responsibility and maturity
• Must be in good academic standing (minimum GPA of 2.5)

Students receive job placement assistance through Drexel University in partnership with TEI. A staff person at TEI also provides in-country assistance and support. In addition, students are responsible for obtaining their own passports and visas.

If you are looking for an international co-op experience, you could not find a better opportunity. Please apply through A round in SCDConline, May12-16, 2012. Questions can be directed to Crete@Drexel.edu.

Click Here to watch a video about the Vidalakis Cretan Scholarship Program.