PICTURED: The iconic coast of Santorini
This summer, I was lucky enough to travel on the 2025 Greece Cultural Tour with Educating Beyond. This organization gives students the opportunity to advance their understanding of culture beyond the classroom experience. Co-Owner and Operator Dr. Heidi Grappendorf led us on our tour of the country. Heidi both planned our tour and helped make the trip stress-free for first-time international travelers like me.
We started the trip in Athens, where we toured the ancient citadel of the Acropolis. After studying Ancient Greek Theatre in the Theatre History class taught by Bryan Wallingford, it was so special to see the iconic structures from my textbooks in real life. The Parthenon, Areopagus Hill, the Theatre of Dionysus, and the Temple of Athena Nike were remarkably memorable sights on this tour. Also in Athens, we toured the Ancient Agora. Standing in the agora, we were able to stop and visualize what this location would have been like in the time of Athenian and Roman civil life.
The Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus
One of the most memorable experiences in Athens was a cooking class led by The Greek Kitchen. We visited local produce and meat markets, then made Dolmades, Imam Baidi, Spanakopita, and other dishes with a significant place in Greek culture.
We spent a couple of days in Santorini, where we toured the entire crest of the island, including the two main towns of Oia and Fira. A memorable night in Santorini was when we went to a Greek dinner and dancing event. The performers danced the fire, Zorba, and Sirtaki dances. They got the audience members up and involved in the dances, then ended the evening with plate smashing.
The 2025 trip to Greece brought what was in my textbooks to life by introducing me to Greek life and culture. I hope to travel overseas again. Thank Wilmington College for opening up this opportunity to its students.
WC students Carlie McCoy and Devon Snyder pose in front of ancient ruins during their tour of Greece in May. The College gives students an opportunity to visit fascinating corners of the world each year.