While studying abroad, I was able to visit family, sharpen my Modern Greek skills, and explore parts of the country I'd never visited before. Studying abroad, of course, introduces you to a wide range of cultures and challenges all your assumptions about education, which was particularly of interest to me as an anthropologist. CYA specifically helped me greatly by having monthly field study trips, which allowed us to venture further from Athens without spending extra money for the travels. I also participated in the Winter field school, which not only equipped me with the technological skills of excavating in Greece, it also introduced me to professional connections that helped me find a job over the summer. Finally at CYA I was able to prepare a research paper and present it on a topic that really interests me, and having this research helped me apply (and receive!) a fellowship at my home institution. CYA connected me with personal support, resources, and academic challenges that have furthered my goals in my field and given me confidence to continue pursuing classical archaeological education.

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

I would advise people not to get wrapped up in the allure of traveling every weekend. A lot of students that I know were gone each weekend, either island-hopping or elsewhere in Europe. They definitely had fun, but at first I struggled with feeling left-out, without the money to do the same. I found my own ways to have fun in Athens, and I've gained a deep appreciation for the city. I hope people can understand there are benefits to staying in one place and really getting to know its streets, appreciating its people, trying foods all over the area, and doing normal, everyday activities with friends. Traveling is definitely worth it, but staying behind and exploring your own city is, too.
Also, I would advise students to work on their Modern Greek, even if they're not taking a course. I wasn't able to fit a Modern Greek course into my schedule but I still tried my best to absorb more of the language by constantly asking questions and practicing the alphabet. Greeks are very excited to share their language, and learning phrases improved my experience here.

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

Accessibility, Classical Studies major, LGBTQIA+ student, Mental health, Greek-Americans.

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

I worked at Cherry Land over Spring Break. It was my best experience by far while studying abroad in Greece. There, we were in charge of caring for the animals: donkeys, chickens, turkeys, rabbits, sheep, goats, ducks, and geese. The host, Suzanna, was loving and kind, and her nine-year-old daughter followed us around and always gave us a good laugh. The work was super rewarding, the views were beautiful, and their food was unbeatable. The last night fell perfectly on Epitaph, and they took us to a local village to see the procession, which was beautiful. I am Christian, but not Orthodox, and I was blown away by the event. It solidified my faith, connected me to my Greek roots, and gave me a feeling of community, even when I didn't speak the same language as those around me.

What is your favorite Greek food?

Rizogalo.

What extracurricular activities were you involved with in Greece?

Photography for CYA, volunteer at Cherry Land farm over spring break, marble workshop, paleography workshop, internship at the ASCSA Wiener Lab, book club.