Mary Ingram
About My Study Abroad Program
Major/Minor: Mathematics and Sociology Major/Education Minor
Program: College Year in Athens (CYA)
Location: Athens, Greece
Email: olivia25@live.unc.edu
Term: Spring 2020
Why did you choose to study abroad and how did you select your program?
I have always wanted to go to Greece, so I was very motivated to study abroad in Athens!
What did you learn about yourself?
I learned how to stretch outside my comfort zone, and be flexible when I am in a new environment.
What is one of your favorite memories from your program?
I loved meeting and hanging out with my neighbors at the local cafe!
What advice do you have for future study abroad students?
My best advice is to allow yourself to take advantage of your resources. The programs with which you study are there to help you succeed!
How do you identify?
Student of color, First Generation College Student, Covenant Scholars, Scholarship Recipient
Could you share any experiences where your identity played a role in your time abroad?
As an Asian-American, a lot of locals in Athens would stare out of curiosity. This was uncomfortable at first, but they don't mean any harm!
Is there any advice you would give to other students who share your identity?
My best advice is to embrace and be open to educating others on your identity. Being in a new place warrants questions, and (in my opinion) it is always fun to share part of your culture with others!
If you faced any challenges abroad, where could you turn to get the support you needed?
A big challenge for me while I was abroad was managing my finances - studying abroad in Athens was more expensive that at UNC, so my spending money was spread a bit thinner than usual. Luckily, my friends and professors were more than happy to share tips and tricks to help me while I was abroad!
Memories
