Based on your experience with CYA, what are some of the benefits of spending a semester or summer abroad? How has studying abroad contributed to your personal, academic, and professional development?

I have truly enjoyed the opportunity to immerse myself in another culture. Being able to see the traditions, societal norms as well as engage linguistically and culturally with the local community has been a valuable experience. I feel more confident in my ability to enter the real world post-graduation and am excited to continue my love of getting to know cultures different from my own. This study abroad experience has contributed academically, personally and professionally as it has challenged me by placing me within a new environment, with varying external and internal factors that force me to learn how to acknowledge adversity, adapt and succeed.

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

I wish I knew that there definitely was not enough time to do all that I wanted to do while also taking care of myself. It is completely fine to say no to one opportunity, trip or event if you are feeling tired or need alone time (speaking as an introverted individual). Even if you aren’t going on big weekend excursions there are so many things to do just in a two-block vicinity of your apartment. Take a spontaneous walk. Go try a new cafe. Wander into some stores. Having a full experience at CYA Athens does not mean hitting every island or country in Europe. It means experiencing something new, discovering something about yourself and about the amazing environment you are living in.

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:

LGBTQ student, Student of color, Religion while abroad, Mental health while abroad, Asian

Favorite food in Greece?

Cretan Salad + Orange pie/cake

Favorite quote from abroad?

Get lost—you never know what you’ll discover off the beaten path.