Miles Away, But Closer Than Ever: Finding Friendship Abroad

Madison Jennings
Jul 17
3 min read

LEAD Greece is four weeks full of eye-opening culture, tasteful food, adventurous excursions, and heart-warming service! But, that's not all! From Athens to Mykonos to Crete, two students found a once in a lifetime friendship while being abroad. The memories they shared over homemade gelato and hikes through historic Greece are moments they will cherish for a long time to come!

From their first moments in Congo Palace, Olivia and Katherine knew that they would be inseparable. Spending a month rooming with a random person could be nerve racking, but there was no awkward tension between the two girls. They were so excited to spend the next month together as everything fell into place so naturally. The instant connection between Olivia and Katherine opened their minds to the wonderful friendship that could blossom.

Their days were spent tanning along the sandy beaches, swimming in the sparkling, blue water, and snorkeling from morning to night. Late nights in Greece were filled with so many laughs that their stomachs would start to hurt. The room was filled with random thoughts and superficial details about their days that would bring about waves of laughter and a boat load of smiles.

A favorite memory shared between Olivia and Katherine was founded on a misundersrtanding. While traveling to Gilfada, the girls went to get massages and accidentally booked a couple's massage. They laughed so hard, looked at one another and decided to go with it knowing they were in it together!

The girls went through Mykonos with a pep in their step and an out-going spirit. They explored all the sights and met many locals throughout their days. The girls traipsed through the streets of Greece, staying up so late they almost walked home with the sun rising behind them.

Olivia shared how Katherine's personality complimented her own by sharing, "Katherine, since the day I met her, has helped me become more confident in who I am as a person and become secure in my worth. Her confidence is contagious and makes you want to be the best version of yourself."

Similarly, Katherine shared that, "With Olivia being such an extrovert and me being more quiet and reserved, she brought out the best in me and helped me step out of my comfort zone. She really brought out a fun side in me and I just felt so comfortable around her which made the trip even better."

Now that the program is over, the girls will get back together with a November rivalry game: LSU vs. Alabama! The schools may be on the rocks that weekend, but the girls will be making more memories together. November is still a little bit away, therefore they talk over the phone everyday and want to plan a trip to go to each other's date parties for their sororities.

For all the future students that want to travel abroad and are worried about going solo, Katherine and Olivia definitely recommend it. They believe you should trust yourself and the program. Trust your ability to be adaptable and trust that the program is designed to match you with people who will help you learn more about yourself from this experience. Having a random roommate and pushing yourself out of your comfort zone will open your eyes to all that you are capable of. Take advantage of new possibilities and meet new people from all over!