Olivia Olson

Overall Experience

My study abroad experience in Athens, Greece, was a great opportunity to grow, learn, and experience the world with other like-minded people. I enjoyed learning about what makes Greece so special through my class and seeing it for myself firsthand, navigating and experiencing Greece during my day to day living. Traveling to surrounding Greek islands further enhanced my study abroad time. The people I met and the memories I made during my time studying abroad made me a better person and this experience is something I will cherish forever.

Learning experience

The most valuable learning experience I encountered was communicating with locals and people from visiting countries. Sometimes communicating was easy because they had lots of experience with the English but this was not always the case. This taught me that communication can be accomplished even if its not perfect. We were still able to understand each other through body language, facial expressions, and translation tools. I learned how to most effectively communicate with people whose first language is not English.

Memorable experience

The most memorable experience I have from my time studying abroad was watching the sunrise from our patio on the island of Mykonos. My roommates and I enjoyed the beachfront view while reflecting on our experience so far. This moment was so special to me because I was able to connect with my friends in a such a novel place.

What did you not expect?

I did not expect to be so comfortable being uncomfortable. I was constantly having to navigate being with unfamiliar people in an unfamiliar place, but I loved every moment of it. All of the difficult moments made me a better person, helped me to grow my critical thinking skills and how I approach problem solving. I will approach my life and my profession with an open mindset and always be willing to adapt to changes. I will now be more optimistic when things do not go as planned and find joy in the moments that shape me.

What advice would you give?

As a student wanting to study abroad, I would advise to seize the opportunity! Go for it because now is the time to take the leap and make lifelong memories. Deciding to study abroad can be the hardest part and the study abroad center can help to know the options. When you do study abroad I encourage students to be open minded and connect with as many other students, staff, and people in the place you are visiting. You will thank yourself for being so eager to gain new experiences and relationships.

How has this experience impacted your life?

This experience has broadened my perspective on the world because I was immersed into a new culture through foods, traditions, and day to day habits. This trip grew my confidence in who I am as a person. Many times throughout my study abroad experience I was challenged to understand a different lifestyle. Over time this became a natural practice for me and is now shaped me into the person I am now. While in Greece I learned about the origin of the Olympic Games. This was special to me because as an athletic training student I am drawn to sporting events and how the games have been modernized over time. Visiting the Panathenaic Stadium and the Athens Olympic Stadium were both great opportunities to connect with people who have been involved with the Olympic Games and learn about why it is such a vital part of Greek culture. The professors and students I met while studying abroad will help me to achieve my long-term career goals by building my network of like-minded individuals.

How did you learn about this experience?

I learned about the American College of Greece through the study abroad fair and the study abroad center.

International Connections