Socially, you get to branch out to meet new people from all over the US and internationally. You also have easy access to local community because you’re living in an apartment with other Athinians. Additionally you get to explore a new country for an extended period of time, allowing for deeper understanding of the place. It’s also helpful to learn the language, which CYA provides the opportunity to do! Academically, I was able to branch out from biology into subjects I wouldn’t have studied at my home institution.
Professionally, I had access to a helpful writing tutor who helped me with my resume. I also met a professor who encouraged me to pursue a graduate degree, and offered to write me letters of recommendation.

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

Say yes as much as possible!! There likely won’t be another opportunity like this one during this period of you life, so try to make the most of it.
For students planning on studying here, I would recommend doing a bit of research when choosing your field study to ensure you have the ultimate experience for your interests!

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:

Dietary restrictions, Finances, LGBTQIA+ student, STEM major

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

On the bus to a small mountain village in Naxos, I was able to talk to an elderly Greek man who didn’t speak any English. He gave me a great restaurant recommendation, and I will never forget the feeling of pride that came with learning enough Greek to communicate sufficiently!

Favorite food in Greece?

Dolmades are delicious here! I never loved them when I tried them in the US, but now I do 🙂

What extracurricular activities were you involved with in Greece?  

I did lots of student affairs events such as thrifting, craft night, and screen printing & the marble carving workshop.