As part of her semester with CYA, Makayla Moultree spends part of her week inside Syggros Andreas Hospital, helping and shadowing dermatology doctors. The experience has reshaped both her career goals and her connection to Athens.

“One of the first things I noticed is how collaborative the practitioners are,” she says. “It’s very common to see more than one doctor in the room with the patient, discussing the case together, comparing observations, and making joint decisions. Rather than one lead physician directing everything, it feels like a shared, team-based environment.”

Even when conversations happen in Greek, she still feels included. “Their body language tells me that they are exchanging ideas and opinions about the patient’s case.”

Makayla is not just standing quietly in the corner. “The doctors are fully aware that I am there as a student observer. They always greet me warmly, either with a smile, a friendly wave, or a kaliméra.” Over time, that welcome has turned into hands-on learning. “There have even been moments where they encourage me to participate more directly, for example, putting on gloves to feel areas of the skin where a condition is present.”

She’s found that curiosity opens doors. “They are very open to me asking questions and even encourage it. The doctors always do their best to explain what is happening.” Those conversations don’t always stay clinical. “Some doctors even ask about my personal background, where I’m from, Greek foods I’ve tried, where in Greece I’ve traveled. Those conversations make the hospital feel less like an intimidating medical space and more like a supportive learning environment.”

Academically, the experience connects directly to her field. “I’m not just observing medical procedures. I’m also paying attention to doctor–patient dynamics, power structures, and the unspoken cultural expectations that shape interactions. Everything I’ve studied in theory now has a real, lived context.”

Professionally, shadowing has helped her look ahead with more clarity. “Observing surgeries in particular has been the most impactful. I’m drawn to how fast-paced it is, how it takes a lot of precision, and the teamwork it requires.” That realization has shifted her goals. “I want to work in the operating room in the future, specifically as a CRNA.”

Being in a Greek hospital has also shown her how healthcare systems reflect culture. “One of the biggest differences I’ve noticed is how relaxed the clinical environment can feel. In the U.S., clinicians typically follow a formal dress code, but here I’ve seen doctors in scrubs paired with sandals when the weather is warm.” She’s also learned how different the path into medicine can be. “Medical careers are influenced not just by individual ambition, but also by governmental and institutional frameworks.”

Outside the hospital, the experience has changed how she moves through the city. “Every Monday and Tuesday, I take the walk to the hospital, grab my daily freddo cappuccino from the same café, and then head to my shadowing shift. Having this routine makes me feel like I live in Greece rather than a temporary visitor.”

For Makayla, shadowing isn’t just academic or professional, it’s personal. “Without this experience, my life in Athens would feel a lot more surface-level. At the hospital nothing is curated or catered towards tourists. Everything is raw and unfiltered and that’s what I love most about this experience.”

And in the end, that’s what stays with her most. “This experience makes life in Athens feel almost like a second home.”