My Julymester in Greece
by Ani Antonyan ‘24
My experience studying mythology, ancestry, and oral traditions in Greece through the USC Julymester program was a profound and unforgettable journey. In preparation for the trip, we had a number of meetings to discuss course content and class materials. We were assigned various readings and podcasts to complete ahead of time to prepare for the course and the trip. Having previously taken a Greek mythology class, this opportunity allowed me to deepen my prior knowledge while immersing myself in the culture and surroundings of where these myths were formed.
The trip consisted of excursions across Greece and explorations of the islands. We visited many iconic ruins including the Acropolis of Athens, the Parthenon, Delphi, Ancient Mycenae, Corinth, and Messene, along with seeing incredible museums, Greek temples, and amphitheaters. The abundance of archaeological sites and structures in Greece is a constant reminder of its lengthy history. I developed a greater appreciation for sacred spaces and the importance of preserving history through the course.
We met as a class almost every day while abroad and allocated time to work together on projects related to Greek mythology and tradition as well as exploring our limited understanding of our individual ancestral backgrounds. We held work sessions at cute cafes, outdoor patios, and scenic rooftops. During our free time, our professor encouraged independent exploration to immerse ourselves in the history and culture of Greece. I enjoyed every moment of this, often taking long walks through the city to appreciate ancient and modern structures while reflecting on my personal growth. The hours I spent walking sometimes led to me running into my professor or locals we met during our class explorations.
Beyond the course topics, assignments, and excursions, some of the most valuable moments were the conversations I got to have with people who live in Greece. I’ve always enjoyed getting to know people and their stories, but this was my first time meeting people in a new country. I also got to meet many fellow Armenians, making it an even more heartwarming experience. Many of these strangers became fast friends, and it was hard to say goodbye at the end of the trip.
This Julymester was monumental for me, fostering independence and self-discovery. I am thankful for all the knowledge I gained through this course. It provided me with a refreshing break from my major-focused classes and the summer work commitments I juggled before the trip. This experience will always have a special place in my heart, and I hope that other students have the opportunity to study abroad one day.
Are you interested in exploring the various short-term study abroad programs at USC? Check out our Short-Term Study Abroad Guide to find the program best suited for you!
