Author: Kaytlin Dwer | Major: Anthropology | Semester: Summer 2025

Group picture in front of the Lion of Chaeronea

When I was younger, I was obsessed with ancient Greek history and mythology. Though my interests evolved, Greek antiquity never lost its place in my heart. So when I learned about a summer study abroad program in Greece led by one of my favorite professors, Dr. Levine, I knew I had to go. This program combined my academic interests in archaeology, anthropology, and museum studies with the chance to explore Greece firsthand. The trip took place over the summer and was part of a University of Arkansas study tour focused on classical studies. Our group comprised students from a variety of majors, all eager to connect their fields of study with Greece’s cultural heritage. For anthropology and classics majors like me, it was a dream come true to visit the sites and museums we had spent years studying in classrooms. One of the academic highlights of the program was visiting museums that hold items of antiquity, as well as significant historic sites, both modern and ancient. Another highlight for me was getting to see, or rather, the lack thereof, the Parthenon marbles, which I had previously studied in several of my classes at the University of Arkansas. For example, I learned about the controversy surrounding the Parthenon Marbles, ancient sculptures removed by Thomas Bruce, the 7th Earl of Elgin, in the early 19th century, and now housed in the British Museum. During our trip, we visited the Acropolis Museum in Athens, which holds replicas of the missing marbles and showcases the Greek case for their return. Seeing these replicas in their intended cultural context created a powerful impression. It deepened my understanding of repatriation and helped me connect theory to lived experience. Throughout the trip, we visited countless archaeological sites and museums. At each primary site, a student in our group presented a “site report, ” a mini-lecture on a topic that intrigued them. These presentations, combined with our professors’ on-site lectures, vividly and immediately brought the ancient world to life for us. Learning with the ruins and artifacts right in front of us was powerful, transforming abstract ideas into tangible memories. Beyond academics, we experienced Greek culture in meaningful ways. Not only did we get to crawl inside ancient tombs, but we also participated in traditional dinners and dance lessons, all of which brought our group closer together. These shared moments became lasting memories and helped form friendships I’ll always value. We also kept travel journals to reflect on our daily experiences and learning adventures. Looking back through mine now, reminds me how deeply this trip impacted me personally and academically. One of the most valuable things I learned while abroad is how much I still don’t know. That realization fed my hunger for knowledge rather than discouraging me. With every stop along the way, from the ancient ruins of Delphi to the vibrant streets of modern Athens, I gained a deeper understanding of Greek culture and the profound interconnectedness between the ancient andmodern worlds. One quote that stuck with me came from Socrates: “The only thing I know is that I know nothing. “ I’ve carried that quote with me ever since. It reminds me to remain open, humble, and curious in my academic journey and beyond. If I had one piece of advice for students considering studying abroad, it would be this: take every opportunity that comes your way. You never know where it will lead. For me, one of the most unexpected and life-changing moments was when I had the opportunity to meet forensic anthropologist Dr. Liston and tour her lab. She was working with remains from the Sacred Band of Thebes, a military unit of 300 men. I stood just centimeters away from the bones of these ancient soldiers and even got to hold artifacts discovered alongside them. That experience sparked a new direction in my academic path. I am now exploring options to attend graduate school and pursue a career as a forensic anthropologist. I’ll always be grateful to Dr. Levine for facilitating that experience. Before this trip, I mistakenly thought you had to be fluent in the language of the country you were visiting through a study abroad program. That’s not true. What matters most is being open to learning, to culture, to making mistakes, and to growing from them. If given the chance, I would return to Greece time and time again. There’s no place quite like it: the breathtaking landscapes, the warm blue sea, and the deep cultural heritage make it unforgettable. This program gave me a hands-on experience that I can take with me into future research and studies. I will forever be grateful to the University of Arkansas Honors College, Dr. Levine, Professor Paulson, and the incredible people who welcomed and guided our group throughout Greece.