By Steven Kucharczyk ’18 • Accounting Major
The honors trip to Greece during the spring of 2016 was one of the most memorable experiences I have had to this day.
I have personally been outside the United States multiple times and visited Germany, Poland and Canada, twice. Going to Greece was a very exciting experience because I had never been there prior to the trip and also because I was anxious to see how similar or different it would be to the U.S. and the other European nations I’ve visited.
I must say that Greece certainly did not disappoint. The mountainous landscape was absolutely picturesque and the views from some places were just breathtaking. Overall the country was beautiful despite its problem with graffiti. The people there were extremely friendly to us and it was just so interesting to see the culture there. I felt bad for many of the people though because you could tell that their economy thrived on tourism. No matter where you went, you would always be approached by restaurant owners offering 10 percent off discounts or by street vendors trying to sell you merchandise.
“If someone asked me today whether I would go back in time if I could and relive the trip, I would absolutely say ‘yes’ in a heartbeat … not just because it was an amazing experience learning about their culture, but mainly because I was able to make so many memories with my friends that I know I will cherish forever.”
If someone asked me today whether I would go back in time if I could and relive the trip, I would absolutely say ‘yes’ in a heartbeat.
The reason why is not just because it was an amazing experience learning about their culture, but mainly because I was able to make so many memories with my friends that I know I will cherish forever. Although there were some days that were spent mostly driving and/or visiting museums and archaeological sites, there were times when we still had the opportunity to do whatever we wanted.
Despite the fact that the main purpose of the trip was academic, it was these spans of free time that allowed us to really experience Greece. Whether it was tanning on the beautiful beaches, walking along the coastline, or going out at 11 p.m. to get a late night snack and just walk around the city, it all was just something that I wish I could do again.
Overall, this trip helped strengthen many friendships and provided all of us with a new outlook on life. If it wasn’t for SJC, none of us would have ever been able to experience all of these things and hence is why we also wanted to thank St. Joseph’s College for subsidizing half the cost and for allowing us to have the experience of a lifetime!
Photo by Steven Kucharczyk
Photo by Wendy Turgeon
