Going to Greece on a study abroad was the best thing I ever did! I met so many amazing people and grew so much as a person!

My experience abroad definitely enhanced my academic pursuits and career goals in an amazing way. I gained six credits for my degree while there.

We went to Maroneia, Kavala City, Komotini, Thassos Island, and Thessaloniki. I really enjoyed going to Thassos Island, where we got to swim in the baby blue water, the prettiest water I have ever seen!

I learned so much about the Greek culture and tried some amazing food. I tried Baklava, Gyros, Souvlaki, and Calamari- all authentic Greek cuisine. It was all so amazing! We learned how to Greek dance and it was so much fun!

On a personal level, I gained even more independence. My experience in Greece helped me to communicate with others in a non-English speaking environment. I had to use Google Translate and hand signals sometimes when their English was not the greatest.

I learned that in Greece, they are big on hospitality and making sure that everyone’s needs are met. They treated us like family, and I really appreciate that.

A myth about education abroad is that people will get homesick. There are so many activities that are done on the program that there isn’t even time to think about being home.

My story does relate to other students. My friends wish that they could have been on this program! It excites my parents, friends, and family that I was able to go on this program.

The academic aspect was definitely met on this program. We did many assignments related to places we visited. We completed reflections on our excursions for the day about what we learned, including pictures. We did sight-seeing games like The Amazing Race, where we got clues on where to go for the next location. It was a great way to see the cities of Kavala and Thessaloniki.

I am a transfer student from Lansing Community College, so this was a rare opportunity for me. I am so grateful to have gone on this program and very thankful for the scholarship that I received! Efharisto!

Name: Brianna Stange
Status: Senior
Major: Kinesiology
Hometown: Grand Ledge, Michigan
Program: Kinesiology in Greece: From Odyssey to Modern Times