This summer, Political Science major and Classics minor Xander Georgoulis took his studies abroad through the College Year in Athens program, enrolling in a course focused on populist politics in ancient Athens.

The course offered a deep dive into the political and economic dynamics of the ancient world, examining how populist movements shaped Athenian democracy and innovation. For Xander, the experience was both academically enriching and personally transformative.

“Beyond the beauty of Greece's natural views, and magnificent scenes of preserved antiquity lies a magic unique to the Aegean world alone. Through a vast survey of Greek culture and history, narrowing in on the intersection between populist politics and economic innovation, I had the privilege to experience this magic firsthand while cultivating equally extraordinary relationships of my own."

Xander’s time in Athens underscores the value of global learning opportunities in expanding students’ perspectives and deepening their engagement with the ancient and modern worlds.