By Mia Perez, Public Relations Intern 2024
Being able to live out your dream Mamma Mia summer. I can't think of anything better, and neither could our DIRECT Greece Session 1 students! Greece offered LeadAbroad students not only breathtaking views but more importantly the opportunity to forge new friendships in one of the most beautiful countries in the world.
Upon arriving safely to Athens, students boarded the bus and headed to their accommodation. In just the first two days, students participated in our Athens city tour to get to know their new neighborhood and headed to Corinth. Getting to see some of the world's most iconic ancient landmarks? I'm in. Where can I sign up?! After snapping Instagram worthy shots in front of the Acropolis, a tour of Ancient Corinth and a thrill seeking adventure followed. Over the blue gatorade colored canal, students embraced their wild side on the bungee jump. Paige Evernden, a 2nd year at the Univeristy of Mississippi, explained how moments like these kicked the program off on a strong note. She said,"My biggest piece of advice for a future traveler with LeadAbroad is to embrace it all and challenge yourself. There is so much to see and do, and you should take full advantage of those opportunities, even if it means pushing yourself out of your comfort zone!" Next time you find yourself in a new place, try the new food in front of you, take the leap of faith even if you’re scared of heights, and push yourself to new levels. Do it ALL. Paige didn't regret it, and we know you won't either.
And for those who weren’t adrenaline seekers, each of our programs is carefully crafted for every type of student. At LeadAbroad, we ensure there are activities focused on cultural enrichment and community building. In addition to the first few busy days, students came together at our Welcome Dinner - a rooftop restaurant overlooking Monastiraki. Accompanied by a had a GORGEOUS sunset view of the Acropolis, we often look around and wonder “Is this seriously real life?" On a free day in Athens, students enjoyed a relaxing afternoon at Lake Vouliagmeni - a nearby body of water and dock allowing new friends and roommates to lounge and spend quality time together. Moments like these are what Carley Tingler, a 2nd year at the University of Mississippi, holds so close to her heart. "Life is so fragile and these experiences are so rare. We are so lucky to have the opportunity to travel abroad with such wonderful people, in the most wonderful places." Our students wholeheartedly embraced every opportunity, falling more in love with Greece every stop of the way. After Athens, our staff led the students to hop on a ferry to the island of Santorini - an iconic location for all Greece destination goers. Overlooking the white buildings and blue domes, each night ended with a sunset over royal blue waters with boats and cruise ships gliding in the distance. I know what you’re probably thinking – there’s more?! Click here to view a sample DIRECT Greece itinerary!
The next few days, students joined us to visit the must-see Santorini spots. We hopped on a pirate ship (no really, it looks like a huge pirate ship) to the natural hot springs for mud baths and facials and a hike up the Santorini Volcano. One night, our staff accompanied a group of students at the White Door Theatre - a traditional Greek wedding style dinner with dancing, music and of course, smashing of the plates. Before departing, they grabbed their university flags and spent the day on a catamaran - where fresh seafood was grilled onboard and served for lunch. At the final dinner, student and staff speeches brought all the emotions to the room followed by the program's final video (see below)!
After speaking with our staff and getting to know the students that made up session 1, it’s easy to say students found their people, explored their purpose and discovered their place. One student, Taylor Higginbotham, a 3rd year at Auburn University, was able to fulfill a lifelong dream on DIRECT Greece. She said, "I have always dreamed of going to Greece since I was 13 years old. The fact that I have been able to check off a top 3 place off of my bucket list is insane to say." It's stories like this that truly make LeadAbroad's mission worthwhile! From guest speakers to leadership lessons, it’s an experience they’ll remember for the rest their lives. Being able to take away knowledge and growth from a travel experience, is a fundamental part of the program. Don't get me wrong, I love hearing about all the cool things students have been able to do, but we all know a picture is worth a thousand words. Check out some of our DIRECT Greece Session 1 favorites below.
To our travelers: From LeadAbroad, THANK YOU! We couldn't create these memories without our students. We love adventuring with you, we love exploring with you, and even more importantly, we have loved getting to know you.
DIRECT Greece Session 1 2024 Final Video
If you want your next summer to be filled with this much adventure, click below to fill out our Summer 2025 Priority List! Those who join will gain exclusive first access to 2025 dates & prices, have priority on adventures and be able to avoid the fall waitlists.
DIRECT Greece Session 1 Student TikTok's