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Mary Weber
Mary Weber is an Ambassador who studied abroad in Rome and Greece
Briefly describe a specific cultural experience you had on your trip that made a lasting impression.
Learning about the Greek Orthodox church was a specific cultural experience that has made a lasting impression. In our theology class we learned the ancient and modern day history of the Greek Orthodox Traditions. We visited all the historical Greek Orthodox Churches and were given a tour and run through of an Orthodox mass. One of our assignments in Greece was to interview a local Greek about his/her religious traditions and practices. I was able to get real life perspectives on their beliefs and how it compares to religions back at home. You learn so much when you take time to listen to others about their culture and understand it a lot more.
Why did you choose the program in which you participated?
I wanted to study abroad to learn more about myself and take on a brand new level of independence living in another country and culture. I chose the Roman-Greco program because I was able to live and learn in two different countries. I was able to really get a solid understanding of Italian and Greek life spending 2 months in each. The Roman and Greek History is incredible and mind boggling. I learned and visited so many historical landmarks and important places. Whenever St. Benedict is brought up in a class or the Benedictine Values, I can say "I was in Subiaco and at the Monestary where St. Benedict lived 2 years in solitude." I had so many incredible experiences.
Describe your overall study abroad experience.
My Roman-Greco study abroad experience was an academic enriching, culture adapting, and frienship making experience. Your group becomes a family and you come home with 30 new friends that will always be there reminisce about all your travels and stories. It was worth every penny and I would not trade my experience for anything else.
How has the trip affected you? How are you different for having completed the experience?
This trip has turned me into a global thinker and I have been bitten by the travel bug. There is so much culture to explore in this world!
I have become more aware and inviting of other people's ideas and views. There is so much to learn about life and yourself by listening to other peoples experiences and ways of living.
What advice do you have for future Study Abroad Students?
Explore as much as you can and get lost a couple of times. Some of my best experiances and memories happened when got lost!