CYA - Study in Greece (Summer Program)

My two week experience with CYA through the Heritage Greece Program was an amazing opportunity to learn about Greece while experiencing its history and culture firsthand. We visited historical sites including the Acropolis, Ancient Agora, Delphi, and the Temple of Poseidon, where we were able to learn outside of a traditional classroom setting. We also had opportunities to meet with people in government, business, and academia and learn more about modern Greece. One of my favourite parts was meeting students from across North America and forming friendships throughout the program. As someone with Greek heritage, the experience also allowed me to become more connected to my culture and learn more about its history. I would definitely recommend Heritage Greece and CYA to future students looking for a program that combines academics, travel, culture, and new friendships.

My 2 week summer program with CYA through Heritage Greece was amazing. I studied alongside Americans and Canadians, and also met locals during the trip. I tried new foods, cultural dances, and visited several historic sites. My professor was very accomodating to my needs and explained class content in an engaging way. I learned about Greek history, philosophy, and culture. My favorite experience was visiting the Apivita Headquaters and seeing bee hives upclose. I highly recommend and hope to return!!

My experience with CYA in Athens was truly unforgettable. I loved being able to experience Greece beyond the typical tourist perspective and actually feel immersed in the culture and daily life. Between exploring historic sites, learning in the classroom, trying new foods, and meeting people from different backgrounds, I gained so much from my time abroad. CYA made the experience feel welcoming and gave me the confidence to explore and try things outside of my comfort zone. I came home with new friendships, unforgettable memories, and a much greater appreciation for travel and cultural experiences. I would absolutely recommend CYA to anyone considering studying abroad!

Heritage Greece had a profound impact on me, but the most meaningful part of the experience was the people I met along the way. Being surrounded by other young Greeks who shared similar values, ambitions, and a passion for their heritage allowed me to build genuine friendships and connections that I know will last for years to come. As the grandchild of Greek immigrants who came to Canada and often faced discrimination because they were different, I feel incredibly proud to carry on and celebrate the heritage they worked so hard to preserve. Heritage Greece reinforced that pride and showed me that being Greek is something to be celebrated openly and confidently.

I did the Gourimadi Archaeological Project this summer. I had such an amazing time and I learned a lot. All of the archaeologists there were great and the professor, Hüseyin, was amazing! We excavated morning-afternoon and then had lectures in the evening. The hands-on learning during the excavation paired with the engaging lectures made the month a wonderful experience. It was fun exploring the town nearby, Karystos, during breaks/weekends as well. They provided a good dinner for us Monday-Saturday, but I would also recommend going into town some nights and trying local restaurants.

My summer study abroad session with CYA was truly the best experience of my life. What made this class special was the balance of academics and cultural immersion. There were in-class seminars where I learned so much, but we also had frequent trips to different cities, museums, and historical sites. I would highly recommend this program. My professor was a wellspring of knowledge; he made the class so enjoyable! The location of being in Athens, Greece, was so cool. Our apartments were close to historical sites and city life.

If you're thinking about going abroad with CYA, do it. It's one of the best decisions I have made for my academic career. I met people from all over the country and had the opportunity to explore a new place and, in doing so, learn more about myself! There is a class for everyone at CYA. Whether you enjoy the humanities, like me, or you're pre-med, like some of my roommates, there is something for you to learn. You'll make connections that last for life. Going abroad can be scary, and it's not for everyone. But if you're like me, and you enjoy immersive learning, then this is the program for you.

As my first time out of the country, I would say that I wouldn’t change it for the world! Everyone was so welcoming and friendly and I learned so much from my program. I helped excavate this archaeological site in a local town with professionals. Everyone was so understanding and great teachers. I made a real family in Greece and my knowledge expanded greatly! This program helped solidify my decision on graduate school. Overall, CYA made me grow personally and professionally and I cannot wait to visit Greece again