Winter may not be the first season that comes to mind when thinking about study abroad, but for faculty and students from Flagler College, a January program in Greece proved to be nothing short of extraordinary.
Last winter, Dr. Deborah Teague led a group of students on a 10-day faculty-led program through Greece, offering them the opportunity to immerse themselves in the country’s history, culture, and daily life during one of the most rewarding times of the year to travel.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
From the moment the group arrived, learning extended far beyond lectures and textbooks. Walking through ancient ruins, engaging with local communities, and sharing daily experiences allowed students to connect course content with real-world context in a powerful way.
Iconic Destinations and Hands-On Experiences
The program was based in two historic cities—Athens and Heraklion—giving students a comprehensive view of both mainland Greece and Crete.
Academic and cultural highlights included visits to:
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The Acropolis and the Parthenon
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Syntagma Square, Plaka, and the Ancient Agora
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The Temple of Poseidon
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A day trip to Ancient Delphi and the Sanctuary of Apollo
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The Minoan Palace of Knossos
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Koules Fortress and the Cretaquarium
In addition to site visits, students participated in hands-on cultural experiences, including a cooking class in Athens, where they prepared and shared a delicious meal together and a local Greek weaving workshop—an experience that brought Greek culture to life in a memorable and personal way.
On-the-Ground Support That Makes a Difference
Throughout the program, the group was supported by a local guide from Athens.
“The Study Abroad Association paired us with ‘Venice,’ a wonderful woman from Athens, who served as our guide and made our trip delightful for all,” Deborah noted.
Having expert local support ensured smooth logistics, enriched academic discussions, and allowed faculty to focus on teaching and mentoring students while feeling fully supported abroad.
Why Winter Was the Perfect Season
One of the most appreciated aspects of the program was the timing. Traveling in January meant comfortable temperatures, ideal for long days of exploration.
“The outside temperatures were perfect for our explorations—not too hot and not too cold,” Deborah shared.
Winter travel also offered fewer crowds at major sites, creating space for deeper engagement, thoughtful conversations, and a more immersive academic experience overall.
A Dream Faculty-Led Program
Reflecting on the experience, Dr. Deborah summed it up simply and powerfully:
“Literally everything about our trip was all that we dreamed it would be.”
This winter program in Greece is a strong example of how faculty-led programs outside the traditional summer season can deliver exceptional academic value, meaningful cultural immersion, and unforgettable experiences for both students and faculty.
Winter study abroad isn’t just an alternative—it’s an opportunity to reimagine what global learning can look like.