A First for Study Abroad

Window on Wellesley,
Winter 2022
A photo of Grace Dodd '25 standing on a stone structure near the sea in Greece

Grace Dodd ’25

Hometown: Cincinnati
Program: Dodd was one of 15 members of the class of ’25 in Wellesley’s inaugural class of First Year Global Scholars, in Athens

What inspired you to take the leap and start your Wellesley experience abroad?

I’ve always wanted to go to Greece since taking Greek mythology, logic, and history of medicine classes as a home-school student. I’d become fascinated by Greece’s architecture, history, and politics, and simply viewing the sky from Greece became a bucket list item for me at 13. My choice to study abroad in my first year was in part because I attended an online high school, which didn’t allow me the chance to experience field trips, immersive learning, experiments, or learning within a close community.

What’s your favorite part of your day?

Greece is such a vibrant and fun place that often my favorite parts of the day are walking through the streets of Athens, either to or from classes, as they are often not in a classroom but at specific locations within the city. I love exploring on foot and learning the individual characteristics of each neighborhood or square of Greece.

Any life lessons you’ve learned?

I have learned to value the unpredictable nature of life. I was a high-level gymnast in Cincinnati for 10 years, and I became accustomed to a disciplined, structured, and consistent routine that my time in Greece has made impossible to maintain. … Not having a rigid routine can be really frustrating, but it also allows so much room for adventure and chances to seize once-in-a-lifetime opportunities!

Would you recommend the program to a high school student applying to Wellesley?

Absolutely! It is by no means the conventional path, but it provides you with unforgettable experiences, so much independence, and the chance to explore some of the most beautiful landscapes I’ve ever seen. At no time have I felt left out of the Wellesley College community or felt like I was missing out. … I’ve found the efforts to include us from upperclassmen and faculty so touching, and it makes me so proud to be a Wellesley student.

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