Studying abroad means building independence and self-assurance as the experience is completely open to you, your goals, and your interests. I found my mental state in a better place than I could ever hope because of the freedom to just center myself in an amazing place. I feel all the wiser and prouder of my life because of the incredible things I got to see, do, and dare in Greece. While there are a plethora of other benefits to studying abroad, some highlights include increased cultural awareness, greater religious and social understanding of Greece, and further development of passions and interests. I have learned more about Greek history and archaeology than I could ever hope to, and at the same time, I have learned what it means to be someone living in modern Greece. The teachers and staff are an amazing example of being a window into a completely new place for someone; their experiences, recommendations, and opinions regarding all things Athens and Greece are critical to the CYA experience. At the same time, engaging with the instructors and all the opportunities of CYA meant honing skills for communication and respect for people coming from a completely different perspective than mine.

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 is an infinite amount of things to do abroad, but that it is impossible to do everything. That being said, I would encourage prospective students to be as open-minded as possible to everything thrown at them. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and the best way to make the most of it is to try things you would not otherwise have the chance to. Of course there is the opportunity to travel, but immersing oneself in the city of Athens I found to be far more enriching and immersive. I wish I had the chance to learn modern Greek as I would have loved to know more about the country, but trying all manner of unknown things and asking questions I could not implore someone to do more. I would also advise someone to be welcoming and accepting of other students as I surprised myself with how kind and spirited everyone in the program was. Everyone is there to learn but also enjoy the atmosphere, so I would suggest stepping away from electronics and sharing the real experience with someone.

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

Accessibility, Finances, First-time international traveler, Mental health, Religion

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

For me, a cultural experience that I took a great deal from was sitting in on a Greek Orthodox mass. Happening in a church just down the road from where I stayed, I had passed by it every day but was curious what it was like inside. For my Religions in the Middle East class, we took a trip to the church to witness what an Orthodox mass was like. Between the beautiful music, the ornate architecture and icons, as well as the sight of local Greeks coming to pray, I felt like I was transported into a completely different world than what I had known before. Having great respect for faiths other than my own, I found the experience to be incredibly peaceful, wholesome, and reflective. I was so glad I got to learn all about how Greeks practice their faith and what encompasses an Orthodox church, especially since I would walk by one every single day. I simply felt more connected to where I was.

Favorite food in Greece?

Feta me Meli or feta with honey

What extracurricular activities were you involved with in Greece?

Marble carving workshop, Latin Palaeography Workshop, Music jam sessions and practice for going away party, instagram takeover of CYA account, video/content creation and editing of abroad experience.