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Allison Plunkett
Allison Plunkett is an Ambassador who studied abroad in Greece and Rome.
Briefly describe a specific cultural experience you had on your trip that made a lasting impression.
Every day was a cultural experience, whether you were walking around the Acropolis in Athens of taking the bus in Rome. One day in Rome, the bus stopped in the bus lane because a car had parked there and was prohibiting us from getting by it. Everyone on the bus threw up their hands in disgust and starting dynamically saying "Mamma Mia" and what I can imagine was Italian curse words. The bus driver opened the door and people got off, looked in this car and tried opening it. When the owner of the car came out, they all shouted at her and she gave it to them right back! We all hopped back on the bus and went our way. Public transportation is an awesome way to watch a culture at work.
Why did you choose the program in which you participated?
I wanted to study abroad to apply the skills and knowledge that I had learned in the classroom to the real world. As a history major, I have learned about the Acropolis and Roman Forum, but actually wanted to see them and learn more about them through experience, not necessarily a textbook. I wanted to learn more about myself, faith, and become more independent. I chose the Greco-Roman program because I sought the advantage of dual locations. Their histories are very much tied together, so I found it fascinating to visit both.
Describe your overall study abroad experience.
This is a once in a life time experience that you cannot turn down. It is a great way to explore the world, but still feel that Bennie and Johnnie community. Every single day provides you the opportunity to explore and discover something about the country and yourself. It is awesome to be able to learn about cultural events and historical places in your classes and then get to see them.
How has the trip affected you? How are you different for having completed the experience?
Study abroad has affected me in many ways. I have a different passion for learning and exploring other cultures. I have not only become more accepting of other cultures, but even different types of people from CSBSJU. It was a great way to step outside of my comfort zone and meet wonderful people who bring different ideas to the table. I have tried to stop, slow down, and think more, verses just trying to always get things done and check things off a check list.
What advice do you have for future Study Abroad Students?
Be open to everything and play things day by day. Soak up every minute that you have there, because you will miss it as soon as you are back in the States. Be accepting of other people on your trip and their opinions--It makes for a great time!