While studying abroad i was able to learn how to live independently. The lack of over lap between the Greek time zone and the time zone back home taught me to not rely on my parents as much as I do at my home college. This experience also got me to break out of my comfort zone and make friends with new people faster than I normally would. I was one of three students from my home institution and this pushed me to new people I may not have hung out with before.

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

Take advantage of the city. Many of my afternoons and nights were spent in my apartment. It wasn't until the last two weeks of the program that I truly got out and explored. This is my biggest regret when it comes to studying abroad and I don't want anyone else to make that mistake. Same can be said about the ruins. I did not take full advantage of my ICOMOS card until the very end.

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

Finances, LGBTQIA+ student, Mental health.

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

One of my last days in Athens I spent my time walking around and feeding cats as a way to say goodbye to the city that kindly hosted me for a semester. There were some cats on the hill beneath the acropolis that I had gone to feed when a Greek man approached me. First, he told me I should take a cat from the acropolis because they are magical, which I can't deny. He then thanked me for taking care of the cats before continuing to walk. I knew the Athenians love their cats, but it felt nice to know that they appreciate and welcome strangers into world, especially when they are feeding some of the locals.

What is your favorite Greek food?

My favorite Greek food was the pastitsio!

What extracurricular activities were you involved with in Greece?

I attended many of the student affair events including: the thrifting tour, lucky charm making, pottery during wellness week, and trip to the donkey sanctuary. I also took the marble carving class.