"One of the most valuable opportunities for STUdents" – Reflections from the Great Books Travel Study to Greece

STUdents and professors Dr. Matt Dinan and Dr. Andrew Moore from the Great Books 2013: Eros and Empire course travelled to Greece, where their study of Ancient Greek literature, history, and philosophy came to life through museums, monuments, and archaeological sites.  

 

The group visited key historical sites, including Athens, Sparta, Mycenae, and Pylos, and independently explored each area, connecting their studies to their lived experiences and immersing themselves in a new culture. 

 

"Travel studies like this provide the perfect synthesis between traditional classroom and experience-based forms of learning. It is one of the most valuable opportunities STU students have access to," said Great Books STUdent Kiran Hollmann-Prichard 

 

"I've gained experiences that can inform my engagement and enrich my learning. My time in Greece will stick with me for the rest of my life." 

 

Building Connections and Knowledge 

 

Great Books and English Language and Literature STUdent Warren MacArthur found connection in Greece—forging new relationships with classmates and professors. 

 

“Community is important. I am so much closer with my faculty and classmates because of the experiences we shared,” he said.  

 

“Being physically present, taking in the natural beauty of Greece, contemplating the texts we had studied in the environments which inspired them, and exploring new places with like-minded people is of irreplaceable value." 

 

STUdent Olivia Jordan emphasized the significance of this travel study opportunity and is looking forward to applying what she learned to the material she studies going forward. 

 

"Our ideas were challenged and built upon in Greece. Our professors were always there to talk through anything as we continued to draw connections between the texts we read and the places we visited," she said.  

 

“This connection can only strengthen our education.”