What inspired you to work for Webster University Athens?
Webster University has great experience and expertise with study abroad and international education. Our study abroad programs are ranked in the top 2% nationwide. Everyone is passionate about what they do and everyone is like family here at Webster Athens.
Visiting the Temple of Zeus in Athens
Why do you do what you do?
I love working with students. I love helping them develop, learn, and grow! The Odyssey in Athens study abroad students are particularly rewarding to work with - teaching them about the great culture and history of Greece!! Helping them fall in love with this country, as I did. This is what fuels me!
What is your favorite part of your job as the Director?
The favorite part of my job is the interaction with the students. My office is always busy! The door is always open and students are always coming in and out. They enjoy coming in and chatting during their breaks or sharing ideas for possible events. Whatever the reason is for them to stop by, I enjoy this interaction and value their input!!
How do you use your education and international background in your current role?
I have dual heritage - being raised Greek-American. So, I have a good understanding of what the American study abroad students are feeling when they are studying with us and I have a good understanding of the Greek culture and society. Also, my educational background is in clinical psychology. I have often used my skills when students have adjustment or other issues abroad.
Excursion with students to the ancient theatre of Epidavros
What are some current projects you are working on?
One of the other areas I am passionate about is community service and involving students in the community. I believe it enhances their study abroad experience. Whether it is working with endangered sea turtles at a rescue center or volunteering at a refugee agency, it allows students to really understand and learn about the local culture.
There are several service projects we work on during the year. At the end of the fall semester, we are planning the fifth annual holiday party for refugee children at one of the local refugee centers. The students get involved with all of the planning and coordinating of this event and they have a great time doing it.
What makes Webster University Athens special?
One of the first comments students make after departing is how much they miss their "Webster Athens family"! Everyone at the university looks out for the best interest of the students. You can definitely feel this sense of family.
It is not uncommon for my office to go and check on a student who is not feeling well or for a professor to go out of his way, above and beyond office hours, to help a student find resources needed for a paper. This extra touch is what makes this institution and the individuals who work here so special!
Why should someone choose Webster Athens over competitors?
We are located in the heart of Athens - right below the Acropolis. It is an ideal location for study abroad and formal study. Just walking around the immediate area of the university facilities and student housing, you can help take in this ancient, yet modern, city!!
Also, we have many local and international students. The Odyssey in Athens study abroad students take classes alongside these students and this helps increase their cultural integration. And, by offering a variety of courses, students can find classes they need and not interrupt their programs of study. Class credit transfers easily to students' home institutions.
Orientation week visiting the Acropolis
What do you hope participants take away from Webster Athens programs?
I hope students will depart from the program with a better understanding of the Greek culture, history, and language. I hope they will have made life-long friends and memories that they will tell their grandchildren. And, I hope they will have learned about themselves and develop skills help them in their future.
What questions do participants often ask you, and how do you typically respond?
Several students ask about safety in Athens. Greece is a very safe country and Athens is a very safe city. There is not a lot of high crime, but just like in any large city, one has to be aware of their personal belongings as we do have petty theft - like pickpocketing. We do a very detailed orientation and meetings throughout the semester reminding students of this.
Webster Athens rooftop with view of Acropolis in background
Why do you think learning a new language is important?
It is so much fun learning a new language and being able to communicate with the local people. All of the students who were initially anxious about taking the elementary Greek language classes were very glad they did. They learned basic communication skills and were pleasantly surprised at how much fun they had learning it.
What advice do you have for individuals thinking about going abroad?
If you are thinking about studying abroad, plan ahead, save your money, talk to your advisor about courses you can take, and be open to the experience. Do not hesitate!! This is the time of your life to do this. You will not regret it.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
Meaningful travel means spending time to learn about the culture and history of a country rather than just visiting a country and spending time just taking photos.
