You get to meet so many amazing people and you get the opportunity to live and study somewhere you never otherwise would have. I think the perspectives you gain abroad are a lot more varied than those in domestic institutions and the experiences of engaging with and learning from those perspectives is a wholly invaluable asset.

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

Truth be told I did not feel blindsided by anything upon arriving for CYA, but I will say preparation for the city itself is important. I think CYA is not all that much of a culture shock for the average American college student, but living in Athens certainly will be. I would say get to know the metro system as early as you can because it will save you a lot of time, and plan your trips ahead of time.

Please select any of the following identities/experiences/backgrounds/perspectives you would be comfortable sharing about with prospective CYAers:

Accessibility, Classical Studies major, Finances, I would talk with somebody from any of these backgrounds gladly, I just only have personal experience with a few of these so I hope I properly answered this question.

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

During our school trip to Crete we ate at a traditional Cretan Taverna, there was one waiter and one cook, and they did all of the work. The entire experience felt very traditional, like a family member cooking for you. The waiter even had drinks with us and took a picture because he liked us so much, and even sat down at one point to explain to us what it was like living on Crete. It was an unforgettable experience.

What is your favorite Greek food?

Probably Moussaka. There was this Gyro place in Rethymno that was my favorite food ever though.

What extracurricular activities were you involved with in Greece?

I played music with one of the professors on campus, Huseyin Ozturk. That was always a really nice experience.