Studying abroad taught me a tremendous amount about personal responsibility as I had to find the right balance between travel/exploring and succeeding academically. More importantly than anything it else it taught me the importance of putting myself out there and making great friends that I will continue to stay in touch with outside of the program.

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

I would say to cherish every moment of it as the experience flies by much quicker than you would except.

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

Overall the political climate was far less polarized and I did not find myself thinking about political happenings nearly as frequently as I do in the states. I honestly not think of many political conversations I had outside of class or my group of friends while attending CYA.

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:

Mental health, Religion, History, Politics

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

- I traveled to the old Greek district of Fener in Istanbul and learned the history of the 50s riots
- Did traditional Greek dance with locals in a small taverna on my second night in Athens
- Had a great Greek dinner at my Modern Greek teacher's home

Favorite food in Greece?

Kotopita

Favorite class you took at CYA?

Tossup between Biography of an Empire: the Surprising Life of “Byzantium” and The Evolution of Human Rights: From Cyrus to the Global War on Terror.

Favorite quote from abroad?

"Kekkos might be the MVP of this semester." - Owen Sauer

What extracurricular activities were you involved with in Greece?  

I began attending a local orthodox church