A Final Message from the Program Manager
As our group travels back to Toronto today, there is much to say about these last few weeks together.
We spent our first days in Athens, and for most students, these days were an introduction to group travel. This group was special from the start. In no time at all, they were making connections, helping each other out, and working together. Those first days in Athens were a whirlwind of tours and visits to historical sites, but also the rush of traffic and fast-paced city life while dealing with a time change and jet lag. It felt hectic, but the kids helped one another through it. Despite the fast pace, they dove headfirst into the rigorous schedule of their classes.
An overnight ferry trip took us to the gorgeous island of Crete, where we were able to relax a little and settle in. The open air and more relaxed pace in the town of Rethymno were a welcome change for our group. Students were able to focus full days on their Biology, English, and Classical Civilization courses. Each day, wherever they worked, they read, analyzed, discussed, wrote, and explored all sorts of new topics. Class time was balanced by time at the beach, and the island life seemed to suit them well.
From Crete, we sailed to Tinos, a windswept island with quaint villages and beautiful sunsets. Then, we moved on to stunning Syros, where were made ourselves at home in the Dolphin Bay Resort. Sailing, hiking, a Mykonos visit, and beach volleyball kept students busy between classes. We returned to Athens relaxed and refreshed, just in time for the hottest days of our program. With only 3 days left, the kids balanced final projects and exam reviews with strolling through the narrow streets of the Plaka and Psiri neighbourhoods, eating just one more gyro, and celebrating with an awards ceremony where they danced the night way – together.
As we return to Canada, back to our homes, our loved ones, and our daily lives, our students might take some time to re-adjust. In these weeks away, they have gained much academically, but I think they have learned even more than the English, Biology, and history they studied. They have learned to be more adaptable in new settings and have seen more about the value of patience in trying situations. They have become more curious about other people, foods, communities, and traditions. They know the value of looking out for one another and supporting new friends. They have seen first-hand that experiential learning is an amazing opportunity — one they will not forget.
On behalf of our amazing staff (Mr. Fuller, Mr. Flaherty, Ms. Renton, Mr. Austin, Ms. Renton, Ms. Greco, Angela, Maddy) and myself, I want to thank each of our students for helping to make this a wonderful program, and thank you, their families, for all your support. I wish all of you kids a very happy welcome home. May you start planning your next journey soon!
Happy travels,
Diane
Program Manager
Global Summers Academy
July Greece Program
