Studying abroad has always been a dream of mine, and the first week of my Athens and Rome Winter Study Abroad Field Trip has exceeded anything I could have imagined when I first signed up for this trip. Throughout my first week, I have learned how to navigate a new country and its culture, speak and connect with people worldwide, and appreciate every opportunity to expand my cultural and global business intelligence. As I continue throughout this trip, I aim to enhance my knowledge of successful connection and leadership on a global scale by learning and applying the skills of the great Greek and Roman rulers who led these countries 4000 years ago.
Arriving in Athens, Greece, I immediately noticed how friendly and helpful the local people were. At dinner, the staff was extremely welcoming and helped me decide what Greek cuisine to try, allowing me to fully immerse myself in the experience. A significant part of receiving a well-rounded education and appreciating the places visited has been trying the foods they eat in Athens and gaining an idea of what life here is like. The language barrier has been difficult, but also an interesting and insightful experience in how to communicate with people outside of my language. Compared to the fast-paced lifestyle in American culture, the culture in Greece is slower-paced and allows for appreciation of the city as you move throughout the day. I have appreciated the time to reflect on my experiences versus immediately running to the next item on the itinerary, which I often do in America.
Throughout this week, I have seen numerous breathtaking sites, including the Acropolis and all of the structures within, the grounds where Aristotle, Plato, and Socrates spread wisdom and changed the way of thinking, and the Ancient Athens and Roman Agoras, where the heart of Athens’ economic and political stood several thousand years ago. To truly comprehend these sites’ beauty, significance, and complexity, you must see them in person. Through the CIBS Program, I have experienced a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the places where our democracy, economics, and modern-day thinking were created. I would recommend everyone take the opportunity to study abroad and see the world.
