Studying abroad allowed me to grow and learn a lot more about myself before entering the workforce. I had never traveled outside of the country before so going on trips by myself helped me gain independence and confidence in unfamiliar situations. Being solely in charge of my travel plans helped me to figure out what really interests me and what I truly enjoy doing, as well as appreciate my own company. I also got to see what life can look like outside of the U.S. and how different cultures interact and connect with each other. I learned a lot about what I value and gained a lot of new values from all the friends I made from Greece and the rest of Europe and even Australia, and I hope to bring these values back and continue to apply them to my life. Being away for so long also made me even more grateful for the friends that I get to come home to. I think if I hadn't spent these months in another country I wouldn't have ever been able to stay in the same city and hold a normal 9-5 job after graduating.

What advice do you have for prospective students who are interested in or planning to study abroad with CYA?

Don't be afraid to travel alone. I mean, take safety precautions of course, but don't be afraid of being lonely. There are so many things to do in new cities and people at hostels all want to make new friends. Some of the best memories I have are from trips where I showed up at a hostel without knowing anyone and having nothing planned.

How was the political climate in Greece different from what are you used to? If applicable, describe a time when you had to navigate a political conversation during your time abroad.

I fell as though the political climate is more-left leaning than in America. Although gay marriage was only recently legalized I never felt unsafe as a gay woman. Additionally, politics here seem to be more about specific ideas rather than parties and people which I appreciated and thought was more conducive to productive conversations.

please select any of the following that apply to you, and that you would be willing to share about your CYA experience with other students:

Finances, First-time international traveler, Greece-based traveler, LGBTQIA+ student, Mental health, Post-graduate networking, STEM major, Student athlete

Briefly describe a cultural experience you had that was significant to you in any way.

While visiting the island of Syros I met up with my friend Charris who I had only met 3 times before, and he invited me to a barbeque at his friend's house. I got to watch them cook the meat and I tried lamb for the first time. We stayed out in the sun talking and eating for the entire day. It felt very significant because even though I hardly knew one of them and hadn't met the other at all, I felt very welcomed into both of their homes. We talked for hours and exchanged anecdotes about our universities and little traditions back home. By the end of my 4-day trip I would say Charris became one of my closest friends that I had met in Greece.

Favorite food in Greece?

The Souvlaki Smyrna from the taverna Chyma in the village AnoSyros

Favorite class you took at CYA?

Modern Greek Language