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Katherine Peters
Katherine Peters 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.
One of my favorite cultural experiences was eating dinner during our first few days in Greece. All the students were taken out to eat by our school and all the teachers came as well. We walked to a restaurant just up the road from the school and sat outside since Greeks prefer to sit outdoors in the warm evenings. A teacher sat at each table so we were able to talk and ask questions about what it is like to live and work in Greece. I learned many things about the culture and its customs, as well as what food is normally served for dinner. We were fed all the traditional foods, such as Greek salad and fried zucchinis. I thoroughly enjoyed this experience because it was my first time at a Greek restaurant and I was able to discover so much about the culture.
Why did you choose the program in which you participated?
I wanted to study abroad so that I could expand my horizons, gain more confidence, challenge myself, make new friends, and take classes that I would not normally take. I also wanted to travel to places that I had never been before so that I could experience new cultures. The Greco-Roman program immediately attracted me because it allowed me to live and study in two countries. I feel that I had twice the experiences and adventures of students in other programs because I became acquainted with two different cultures. It was challenging to pick up and leave Greece after only seven weeks there, but it gave me the opportunity to have an exciting new start in Italy. I also liked the fact that both of these countries speak languages other than English. This took me out of my comfort zone sometimes, but it was a fantastic learning experience.
Describe your overall study abroad experience.
I would tell them that it is an experience far beyond what I ever imagined it would be. It is a tremendous learning experience, but at the same time it is incredibly exciting. Every excursion helped me to understand the culture and the people better. Going to a class that is on-site somewhere truly makes learning come to life. There is nothing like having class right in front of the Parthenon or the Vatican - you simply have to experience it for yourself. You also have to see things with your own eyes because no picture can capture the countless breathtaking views I experienced. Studying abroad is absolutely a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity which I recommend to everyone.
How has the trip affected you? How are you different for having completed the experience?
This trip has helped me learn about myself and how to live, work and communicate with others better. It has also taught me how to face challenges in a more positive way. I have made friendships that I truly cherish and I have gained more confidence in my strengths and abilities. I have become more aware of my weaknesses as well, and have tried to improve upon them. I have noticed that I have changed how I think about the world and other aspects of life. I often find myself comparing certain parts of my American culture to the things I learned in Greece and Italy. I miss the food and the lifestyle of these countries, but now I greatly appreciate the qualities of the country I live in, which I do not take for granted anymore.
What advice do you have for future Study Abroad Students?
I advise anyone to take every opportunity they get to travel or try something new. It is so important to live in the moment and not have any regrets because the trip literally does fly by. Also, pack less than what you think you will need because no matter what, you won't use everything you bring and you can always buy anything you need there. Carrying your stuff around when you are traveling is not fun, so the less you bring the better.