Boarding Pass to Boldness: Leaping into Leadership Abroad

Madison Jennings
Jul 3
2 min read

It all started with a flight to Athens, Greece. It's crazy to think that one decision—to study abroad—could open up a world of possibility and opportunity. It's extraordinary that a rising senior at the University of Georgia could make such a lasting impact on her peers. Meet Grace Fee, a DIRECT Greece Session 1 student who traveled across the world with pep in her step, positivity in her heart, and a radiating personality.

Throughout her two weeks in Greece, Grace made a conscious effort to form deep, meaningful connections with those around her. Embracing a multitude of perspectives and outlooks from those around her was crucial to forming friendships and exploring the sights of Greece. There was plenty of bonding over authentic gyros, long hikes through Ancient Corinth, and delicious gelato.

Grace shared, "Being in a foreign country with a bunch of people your age who share similar experiences yet at the same time have different upbringings presented a beautiful opportunity to really connect on a deeper level, practice forming relatability, and approaching new situations with joy."

Grace not only provided her peers with grace and kindness as they moved through beach days, service opportunities, and sight seeing, but she exemplified an open mindset on cultural differences. This led to Grace jumping into the excursions head first—literally.

She volunteered to be the first student to bungee jump in Corinth, and her experience shaped the rest of the groups. She knew that if she had hesitated after that final countdown then she would've initiated a rippling effect of fear through the rest of the group. With faith in herself, bravery instilled in her soul, and a smile plastered on her face, she encouraged everyone around her.

This motivation to step up as leader was only encouraged by the entirety of the amazing LeadAbroad staff. Grace desired to share that Elle, Kathryn, Kate, and Logan were wonderful examples of embracing new experiences with joy. Their contagious positivity coupled with Grace's mindset lead the entire DIRECT Greece group to an enthusiastic trip from Athens to Mykonos.

As much as Grace impacted the trip, the time abroad impacted her as well. One of our lessons abroad provided her with the realization that she would be her best self when the things she was doing and the people she surrounded herself with aligned with her values. Going forward in her everyday life, whether professional, educational, or social, she is going to make an effort to surround herself with those who will honor her values and help her uphold them.

Grace's meaningful realizations and unforgettable experiences were only made better by the incredible people and the crystal-clear blue waters of Greece.