Dear Rachel Yurko, based on your experience with CYA, what are some of the benefits of spending a semester or summer abroad? How has studying abroad contributed to your personal, academic, and professional development?

The biggest benefit is learning how to communicate with people while dealing with a language barrier. My communication skills have definitely improved throughout my time in Athens. I also have become more sensitive to other cultures and their customs through being immersed in them.

What advice do you have for prospective students who are interested in or planning to study abroad with CYA?

My advice would be to go out and experience as much as you possibly can. If your friends ask you to hang out always go because you may never be able to come back to such an amazing, beautiful place.

How was the political climate in Greece different from what are you used to? If applicable, describe a time when you had to navigate a political conversation during your time abroad.

The biggest difference is how much political graffiti I have seen because back in my small town there was not a lot of that so it was very interesting to see. Also, I am not used to seeing police officers just standing around the streets.

Please select any of the following that apply to you, and that you would be willing to share about your CYA experience with other students:

Briefly describe a cultural experience you had that was significant to you in any way.

The most significant cultural experiences I have had are the extremely long dinners with friends. It always takes about two to three hours to have a dinner out, and it is so amazing to be able to have deep conversations with one another and grow closer.

Favorite food in Greece?

My favorite food in Greece are the potatoes in the oven. It sounds so simple, but I could definitely eat a whole pan.