My semester abroad has been such an enriching and transformative experience. As a business and STEM major, the opportunity to delve into liberal arts courses at CYA not only deepened my appreciation for humanity's diverse expressions but also inspired me to think about bigger questions. Exploring Athens, Greece, and other parts of Europe with like-minded peers helped me forge lifelong friendships and exposed me to new ways of thinking. As an international student in the U.S., this was my second time studying abroad, which allowed me to immerse myself in another completely different culture, interact with local communities, and gain a deeper understanding of global perspectives. With that, I come away with a heightened sense of curiosity and an expanded understanding of my own personal perspectives and actions in a global context.

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

I strongly recommend considering the homestay option. During my semester, I had the privilege of staying with a Greek American family, and I simply loved it so much. My homestay family was so kind, opening not only their home but also their hearts to me and wholeheartedly accepting me as the third daughter of the family. I would forever cherish the memories of weekly visits to the farmers’ market, learning to cook Greek cuisine, playing Greek card games, long conversations in front of the fireplace, and many more. With homestay, I gained an immersion in Greek culture and family style, lifelong relationships, and a second home.

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:

Mental health, STEM major

Favorite food in Greece?

Lamb chops

Favorite class you took at CYA?

How to Become What you Are: the Art of Living in the Network Society