Lauren Hunsecker

Lauren Hunsecker had the opportunity to study abroad at the American College of Greece for a total of five weeks in Agia Paraskevi, Greece. She attended classes daily and in her spare time in the evenings practiced learning the Greek language by studying with her roommates and friends. They even practiced speaking the language with local shops, restaurants, and kiosk owners. Her courses allowed her to gain knowledge about ancient Greeks and how Greece truly represents the cradle of democracy. This was an important part of Lauren’s immersive experience in Greece because as a political science student, much of her studies have involved studying ancient Greek philosophers such as Aristotle and Plato and their works. Being able to see where they lived and how the culture influenced their works put a new perspective in Lauren’s mind as she continues her education, however this time in a master’s degree program.  

When Lauren wasn’t attending classes or practicing Greek with friends she enjoyed “island hopping” while in Greece. She was able to travel to three different islands: Aegina, Paros, and Spetses. This was where Lauren was fully immersed in Greek culture because these were non-tourist island locations that were in a sense cut off from the rest of Greece even though they were only a three-hour ride from the Piraeus port in Athens. She learned the importance of living in a collectivist society where people care for the community above all else. The Greek citizens she encountered on the islands were more than welcoming in introducing new aspects of Greek culture to Lauren and her American friends-aspects such as food, dancing, speaking, and even driving! While back in Agia Paraskevi, Lauren enjoyed learning to use the Greek public transportation system which allowed her to embark on a bus and metro to downtown Athens where she was able to visit the Acropolis, Agora, and ancient Greek neighborhoods such as the most beautiful and oldest neighborhood known as Plaka. This experience was incredibly rewarding for Lauren because she was truly able to immerse herself in Greek culture in nearly every way–educationally, professionally, and socially to gain a greater appreciation of life itself