This past month the HHF was invited to attend a reception at the Munk School for Global Affairs which was hosted by a non-profit educational institution that has been acting as a cultural and educational bridge between the U.S. and Greece for nearly 60 years called the College Year in Athens (CYA).   

Founded in 1962, the CYA`s mission is to help students become global citizens who understand and appreciate diverse cultures.  The CYA was the first study abroad program in Greece for English-speaking undergraduates. They offer academic year, semester, summer, and winter programs that provide students with the opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich culture and history of Greece and the Mediterranean. All programs are delivered in English at the International Center for Hellenic and Mediterranean Studies (DIKEMES), located in the heart of Athens, near the iconic Kallimarmaro (Marble) Stadium and the National Gardens. This central location offers students a unique advantage to explore the city while engaging in academic pursuits.

CYA’s programs are academically rigorous and cover a broad range of disciplines, from ancient to contemporary studies. CYA courses are taken for credit and our academic team works with a students respective college or university to ensure the credits taken will transfer accordingly. The curriculum is designed to provide students with not only theoretical knowledge but also hands-on learning experiences. Many of the courses feature on-site classes at historical landmarks, museums, and cultural sites, allowing students to directly engage with the material they are studying. This immersive learning approach fosters a deep connection with Greece’s cultural heritage and encourages students to develop critical thinking and cross-cultural sensitivity.

In addition to academics, the programs are designed to promote personal growth. Students have the opportunity to broaden their worldview, challenge themselves, and grow as individuals. Whether it’s through interactions with local communities or exploring the country’s landscapes, the experience of living and studying in Athens allows students to gain invaluable life skills and a greater appreciation for different cultures.

At CYA, their goal is to inspire students to return home not only with a deeper academic understanding but also with a lasting commitment to international and intercultural awareness. Our ultimate goal is for students to leave Greece intellectually stimulated, personally enriched, and more connected to the global community.

The Hellenic Heritage Foundation is currently exploring opportunities to work with the CYA in addition to our current support and commitment to study abroad opportunities in Greece which is one of the key programs that the Foundation supports and is invested in.  For more information on the CYA and its course offerings in Greece, please visit: www.cyathens.org