An Unforgettable Experience

CYA was an amazing experience and it has truly been life changing for me. The administration was so careful and aware of our needs and the orientation sessions, though tedious, were helpful when it came to navigating but still saying safe in Athens. CYA gave me the opportunity to travel Greece and visit parts of the country I would not have had access to otherwise, both through mandatory and optional trips. The perfect location sealed the deal on CYA being the place for me. Being across the street from the Panathenaic Stadium and within walking distance of major historic sites is something that not many can say.
I wish there had been more on campus activities where people can meet others with similar interests that they go to school with. Regardless, though my biggest worry beforehand was finding people I connected with, it was not as difficult as I believed and there was a friend group for everyone! I found that having friends with similar interests really improves traveling, exploring, and the CYA experience over all. Bonding with my fellow students came easiest on the optional trips that were offered on weekends through CYA. Usually, it was an intimate group of 20 to 30 students that would participate and you got to know everyone else very well.
In Athens, and at study abroad and general, it was so important to go out and explore! During the first few weeks especially, I felt as though I didn't really know the area so making it a point to explore, not just Pangrati, but further out as well, was a great option. In the CYA handbook, there was a list of many places listed that we could visit within walking distance. Beyond that, Nadia was sure to email us upcoming festivals and surrounding popular cafes, promoting interacting with the locals (while also allowing us to practice our Greek!). Overall, this is definitely an experience I wish I could revisit. I have developed a newfound love of Greece (both the culture and the food) and plan to return for sure!