After spending a month in Greece, it is much easier to see how much simpler life can be if we let it. It seems like people in Greece value deliciously fresh food, quality time with friends and family, and making a simple living. For example, in Greece, nothing seems to be specifically planned. If it is, the designated time is not taken as seriously. Throughout our program, “Greek time” was a common phrase Professor Sorovigas and other Greek faculty would refer to when we were running late. The European lifestyle is more laid back (although their chaotic driving could portray otherwise).  Obviously, it is important to be on time for significant events and appointments, but running a few minutes late on your day-to-day schedule should not be the end of the world. 

This program presented me with a magnitude of opportunities I would never have been able to have at home. I was able to network with Greek professionals, successfully complete the remaining credits of my undergraduate degrees, research international law, and learn more about the Greek way of life. We visited multiple companies and organizations, including Titan, the Domaine Bairaktis winery, the Ouzo factory, and the marble factory. The cement company, Titan, exposed me to the goals and aspirations within corporate companies in Greece and how they differ from those of the United States. Although through my independent study in which I researched the gender inequalities in Greece, I learned of the alarming gender inequity in Greece, Titan seemed to be moving in the right direction. They shared their goals to incorporate more women on their board of directors and other pursuits toward gender equality.

I was able to successfully complete the academic goals I had set prior to my departure while simultaneously being able to explore Greece personally with new friends on my own time. Because I consider myself to be somewhat reserved and I went into this program not knowing anyone, I was pretty hesitant. Fortunately, and much to my surprise, all of the students I traveled with shared an easy going and friendly mindset, which only enhanced my study abroad experience. I developed close relationships with almost every single person in our group. In fact, even two months after returning to the United States, we still talk regularly!

In the past month, I have also learned that Greece is MUCH more than clear, blue water, perfect sunsets, and beautiful beaches. Although it has all of these scenic views, it also has issues with the quality of their health care, wildfires, safe sewage, and stray animals. Exposure to these issues was shocking and extremely eye-opening as we do not frequently hear about Greek issues in the United States.

Overall, this international experience was the best way to finish my time at Michigan State University and spend my summer. Now I wish I would have considered studying abroad earlier in my academic career. I am so grateful for everybody who played a part in allowing us to visit, including Professor Sorovigas, the study abroad office, the Athens Center, and the multiple scholarship donors who made my program possible.

Name: Megan Ploetz
Status: Senior
Major: Humanities - Prelaw and Women’s and Gender Studies
Hometown: Washington, Michigan
Program: Business Law, Ethics and Sustainability in an Emerging Global Market in Greece