Study Abroad

Where did you study abroad?
Athens, Greece

What is your favorite memory/experience from your time there?
I have so many great memories! Besides interacting with the people and experiencing a new culture and new places, my favorite memory is walking onto an inner-city volleyball court with a group of BCA students and a volleyball. A bunch of Greek guys were playing already, and we were surprised when they invited us to play with them. They ended up becoming some of our best friends while in Greece, and we met them for volleyball three nights a week, every week, playing for three or four hours until they shut off the lights. As a collegiate volleyball player, I absolutely loved this opportunity! We learned a great deal from them.

What was the hardest thing about being in the country where you studied?
The hardest thing was taking advantage of all the opportunities! We had so many options and ways to fill our time while in Greece. Each weekend we went on new adventures to other countries and islands or simply explored Athens. After class each day we could choose to enjoy Greek food, explore the shops in the heart of the city, take quick trip to the beach, or hang out with our new Greek friends. As time went on we developed new connections that lead to more activities. There was never a dull moment, and it was hard to prioritize which things we wanted to do in our limited time. Three months was not long enough to take in all Greece has to offer!

Would you like to go back and why?
I would love to pack my things and leave tomorrow for Greece. The country is beautiful, the people are welcoming, and the culture is unique. It's different from America's "meltingpot," because in Greece nearly everyone is Greek and has a similar background. They all grow up learning the same stories and experiencing the same culture. It is interesting to be surrounded by unity, in a cultural sense. I also have stayed in touch with many of my Greek friends, and a few were even able to visit last spring. I would love to see them again.

What’s your favorite thing to do on campus?
I really enjoy game nights with the volleyball girls, or playing Rec floor hockey. Sledding down Cemetary Hill ranks up there pretty high, too!

What do you like best about Messiah College?
I can't say enough about the opportunities at Messiah. I've talked to my friends at other schools working toward similar degrees, and they are bored, tired of school, or annoyed with their classes. The academic programs at Messiah are excellent, and they have stretched and molded me in ways I never thought possible. Through academic, athletic, travel and leadership opportunities, I have been prepared for whatever future God has in store for me.