Αντίο Ελλάδα, γεια Καναδά
(Good Bye Greece, Hello Canada)
Wednesday, July 23, 2025
We have done many travel days so far on this program, today’s journey from Athens to Toronto will be the last one. It is safe to say your children are more seasoned travelers than they started on June 28, 2025. In this moment, it is hard to describe the impact that this program had on the students, staff, and myself, but we do know when we all have some time to reflect on our journey that began on June 28, we will look back on this opportunity with a big smile on our face. Our last dinner and dance at our hotel in Athens, was a wonderful evening of celebrating what was accomplished, a great group of young adults that formed a cohesive community in 25 days. Even though I have done these programs for many years, it still surprises me just how close a bond they make in such a short period of time.
Your children have a big heart and sound direction on where they are going in life, they are ready for what lies beyond high school. The students proved time and time again they were responsible young adults. They also showed a great deal of enthusiasm for life and travel, I love seeing that in them, this will be of value to them in the future. Last night, we had the opportunity to sign their names on each other’s souvenir t-shirt that was purchased by Global Summers Academy and the staff. Looking around the room it was easy to see how well the group liked one another as they all excitedly signed their names on every T-shirt. This group enjoyed being with one another, for the most part they went from strangers to friends and in some cases, we feel they will be lifelong friends. The dance that followed was incredible. Our DJ was amazing and all of the students were dancing well past curfew, check out our Instagram for photos and videos. A perfect way to end a fantastic program.
We want to take this time to thank all the parents for raising such great young adults and for the support you gave me, our staff and your child throughout the program. I would also like to thank our incredible staff team. Alanna, Doreen, Julie, Katie and Rich, you were truly amazing to work with. Our team connected with students to bring out the best possible outcomes for academic success and they also showed such great empathy and care for your loved ones while on the program. I could not have done this without them, they were always there to support the program for the entire adventure. Their tireless effort and passion for their subject areas and for creating fun activities for them made this program the success it was. Thank you all so much, we hope to work again another time.
This program is coming home today, Wednesday evening, but this program will live on, these bonds from this trip will not be broken, these new best friends, this new community, will continue on in Canada.
Have a wonderful rest of the summer everyone.
Sincerely,
Jason Smith – Program Manager
