As a first-generation student balancing a full-time job, academics, and raising my daughter, I never thought studying abroad would be possible for me. However, the Writing Greece program over the winter session turned out to be the perfect opportunity to step outside my routine and experience something entirely new. Unlike typical college courses, this program was stress-free and focused on creativity, culture, and exploration.

"Studying abroad showed me that learning doesn’t have to be confined to a classroom. Athens became my textbook, and every street, meal, and conversation was part of the lesson."

At the heart of my experience was Athens, a city where history and modern life coexist in a way that no classroom could truly capture. Walking through the streets, I saw modern cafes nestled beside ancient ruins, with the Parthenon towering above—a constant reminder of the city's rich history. One of my favorite moments was sitting in a small bookshop, drafting a story while listening to the sounds of the city around me. The inspiration was endless.

What made this program so special was its duration and flexibility. It was long enough to step away from my responsibilities and truly immerse myself in Greek culture and my writing, but short enough that it didn’t interfere with my next semester. The coursework was engaging but never overwhelming, leaving plenty of time for personal exploration. I could spend my afternoons wandering through museums, tasting authentic Greek food, or simply enjoying the atmosphere of the city. Having time to focus on learning without distractions allowed me to appreciate the slow pace of Greek culture—a refreshing change from the fast-paced, deadline-driven world of college and work.

"One of the most unexpected takeaways from this experience was how it changed my perspective on time and connection."

Greek culture prioritizes meaningful interactions—meals are long, conversations are deep, and there’s no rush to move on to the next thing. I found myself reflecting on how often we speed through life without truly appreciating it.

This program taught me more than history and mythology—it gave me confidence. Navigating a new city, trying new foods, and adapting to different customs pushed me out of my comfort zone in the best way possible. I returned home feeling more independent, more creative, and more open to new experiences.

For other students wondering if studying abroad is worth it, I can say with certainty: go for it. You don’t have to be an expert traveler or know everything about another culture before you go. Some programs, like this one, make the transition easy and enjoyable. Studying abroad isn’t just about the places you visit; it’s about how they change you.

"I’m incredibly grateful to the University of Iowa, the Global Access Ambassador Scholarship, and the Writing Greece faculty for making this experience possible. Athens was more than a destination; it was a lesson in slowing down, embracing creativity, and seeing both the world and myself in a new light."

The Global Access Ambassador Scholarship program provides awards to study abroad for a summer, semester, or academic year. The scholarships are intended to support students who study abroad with the intent to serve as Global Access Ambassadors upon return to the UI campus. Upon completion of the study abroad program and return to UI, award recipients are asked to submit a photo and an open letter to prospective students or suggest an alternate means of sharing with prospective students.

Please note that the opinions and views expressed by ambassadors are solely those of the students and do not reflect or represent the views of International Programs or the University of Iowa.

International Programs (IP) at the University of Iowa (UI) is committed to enriching the global experience of UI students, faculty, staff, and the general public by leading efforts to promote internationally oriented teaching, research, creative work, and community engagement.  IP provides support for international students and scholars, administers scholarships and assistance for students who study, intern, or do research abroad, and provides funding opportunities and grant-writing assistance for faculty engaged in international research. IP shares their stories through various media, and by hosting multiple public engagement activities each year.