Lexie Amann ’26

Program: Greece Semester

Major: Strategic Communication Studies

Minor: Global Business Leadership

Why did you choose to study abroad and how did you decide on this program?

I chose to study abroad because I wanted an opportunity that would push me out of my comfort zone. I had never traveled overseas before, so the whole experience was completely new to me. I had heard great things about every study abroad program from students who participated in them before my application, and I knew that I had to take advantage of the opportunity. I chose to study abroad in Athens, Greece, and I am so glad that I did. The students who studied there before me spoke very highly of the program and professors, and I can say now that they were correct in their evaluations! I knew that I wanted to go somewhere that was rich in history and had beautiful architecture, and Greece was the perfect place for that.

Briefly describe a specific cultural experience you had on your program that made a lasting impression.

During my time abroad, I faced many cultural differences that I didn’t expect. For one, Greek hospitality is something that I noticed every single day of being abroad. Every server, business owner, professor, taxi driver, and shop worker that I met was incredibly kind and welcoming, even if the language barrier was strong. Coming from Minnesota, it was refreshing to be in a completely new country with people who shared the same values as us Minnesotans. I went into the program without knowing any of the Greek language, and I was worried that it would impact me negatively. However, I learned the important phrases as the program progressed, and I noticed that the majority of Greek people speak English, and many of them enjoyed practicing their English in conversations with me. I also became a lot more aware of how strong Greek Orthodoxy is and how it impacts everyday life. I took a religion class while I was there, and we learned a lot about how women are viewed through Greek Orthodoxy. Overall, I faced many new cultural experiences that I will forever be grateful for.

Based on your experiences abroad, what are some of the benefits of spending a semester abroad? How has studying abroad contributed to your personal, academic, and professional development?

Spending an entire semester, or four months, living in a different country comes with its challenges, but it is completely worth it. I feel that this experience has made me change positively in so many different ways. I am much more independent now, and I am more willing to embrace ambiguity. I used to avoid difficult things instead of facing them, but when you are abroad you are forced to deal with difficult or confusing things, and now I am more willing to step out of my comfort zone. I also feel that my problem-solving skills have greatly improved. Whether it was troubles with my phone plan, issues related to flights, or the language barrier, I was able to quickly come up with solutions to problems. Lastly, I have a much broader perspective on global issues. We learned a lot about the sexism that is embedded in Greek Orthodoxy, and the injustice that immigrants face. Learning about these issues while directly noticing them was a very influential experience for me, and it gave me a more expansive outlook on these problems.

What advice can you offer for CSB+SJU students who are considering or planning to study abroad?

Do it! Studying abroad can seem very intimidating and scary, but it is the best decision I have ever made. I spent a lot of time worrying about the problems I would face while I was there, but the anticipation was the worst problem I faced. As soon as I got there, I had the best time ever. For those who are planning to study abroad, I would advise them to travel to as many cool places as possible but also to appreciate the city they are staying in. There are so many hidden experiences in every city that everyone should take advantage of, so do your research and use apps like GetYourGuide to find these experiences. For those who are considering, don’t let your fear get in the way of something amazing. I was so nervous before going, and I wasn’t sure how I was going to adapt to a new country, but it was so much smoother than expected. You also have so much support surrounding you. I got very close to the group of CSB and SJU students I traveled with, and I also met students from other schools with whom I formed long-lasting friendships. Our faculty director for the Greece program was so supportive of everyone and organized amazing events for all of us to attend, such as a cooking class, and a sunset watch party at the Temple of Poseidon. The professors in the program are also great support systems. In conclusion, choosing to study abroad in Greece was the best decision I have ever made and I will be forever grateful for the experience.