The benefits of spending a summer abroad are something I could not even begin to describe properly! I got to connect with students from other schools and learn about their curriculum while everyone had the opportunity to share knowledge with one another. I was able to gain a sense of independence by having to coordinate travel plans on my own and with friends I made, as well as navigate a new neighborhood and apartment life when I first arrived. Having the freedom to explore new things and partake in novel experiences with people I did not know very well built a lot of confidence in myself and now I feel so much more knowledgeable about how to approach a foreign country whether it be the people or the lifestyle structure, I feel very capable of being able to travel to other parts of Europe. Being able to immerse myself in hands-on experiences of things I am so interested in but cannot grasp the same way virtually (like artifacts and museum visits) was such an enriching opportunity and it gave me a lot of perspective on various world views and ancient history. I never been able to conceptualize the detail or scale of so many artifacts and monuments without seeing them in person; it made me value ancient history beyond how I already did. Academically, it was so valuable to be able to work with and learn from people beyond my own university who shared the same niche interests as I did. I also gained so many benefits as far as cultural exposure goes. I was able to expand my taste palate, learn how many Europeans structure their work days (such as with siesta hour), and understand how rich history shapes modern customs. Understanding these things is very beneficial when I am in a professional setting and have the opportunity to work with those who may come from a different background than me. I could not be more grateful for the opportunities that CYA gave me.

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

I was very worried going into this experience that the language barrier would be very difficult to overcome, however, almost everything had an English translation under it, and many more people spoke English than expected. It was not scary at all.
I also wish I knew how hot it was going to get by the end of the summer. I did not expect it to be over 100 degrees every day.
I also was happy to find out that CYA makes the effort to allow our class to bond together right from the beginning; I was very worried I would not make any friends but we stuck together with our class more than expected and that was very reassuring.
Some advice I have would be to bring your backpack. Many people use tote bags for school purposes but having a backpack is still very useful to travel with and carry things in the hot weather to be hands-free. Bringing an insulated water bottle was essential, as was having a good pair of walking shoes.

Favorite food in Greece?

Loukoumades

Favorite class you took at CYA?

REL 351 with Professor Afzal!!

What extracurricular activities were you involved with in Greece?

There weren't as many activities over the summer, but every opportunity I could take to go on an adventure with Niki (CYA Student Affairs), I did. They were awesome and allowed me to see parts of Greece I never would have gotten to on my own.