My semester with College Year in Athens (CYA) was nothing short of life-changing. The four months in Athens were truly the best of my life, filled with personal growth, challenges, and unforgettable experiences.
CYA pushed me out of my comfort zone from day one. Living in Athens, I had to adapt to a new culture, navigate unfamiliar streets, and embrace independence. The immersive classes—often held at iconic sites like the Acropolis—made learning dynamic and inspiring, connecting history and culture to our everyday experiences.
This journey not only deepened my academic understanding but also taught me resilience, adaptability, and the value of stepping into the unknown. CYA challenged me to grow as a person, and for that, I’ll always be grateful.
What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
If I could give one piece of advice to future study abroad students, it would be this: take the time to truly get to know Athens. There’s often an expectation that studying abroad means checking off as many European countries as possible, but in doing so, many miss the beauty of the country they’re actually living in.
Athens is vibrant, layered with history, and filled with incredible food, culture, and people. From exploring local neighborhoods like Plaka and Exarchia to watching sunsets from Lycabettus Hill, there’s so much to experience right where you are.
While traveling can be exciting, some of my favorite memories were made by simply being present in Athens, connecting with the city on a deeper level. Embracing the everyday life of Greece allowed me to see it as more than just a destination—it became home.
Response from CYA (College Year in Athens)
Hi Julia, thanks for sharing your experience with CYA! We love hearing that you were able to connect with your roots, explore Greece, and grow both academically and personally. We hope you can visit again soon!