Submitted by Olivia Malinowski on the 2020 winter session study abroad program in Athens, Greece sponsored by the Department of English…
As my first week in Athens, Greece is coming to a close, I am still in disbelief that I am actually here experiencing life in a completely new country. The first week has been a whirlwind with a very busy schedule, but it has allowed me to see parts of Greece I wouldn’t have had the chance to see if I was visiting outside a study abroad program. So far, the coolest trip we’ve taken was to see the Parthenon and Acropolis in Athens. I learned that Acropolis means “upper city” and is the structure of rock that the Parthenon sits on which holds great historical and architectural significance to Greek citizens. While hiking up the Acropolis and being able to see the breathtaking views, I realized how lucky I was to be standing on a structure that holds such historic meaning. So far, I’ve enjoyed having a packed and busy schedule because it is allowing me to see so much of Greece and really make the most of my time here. I am looking forward to seeing more of the beauty and lessons that Greek life has to offer in the next two weeks.