Penn Abroad Ambassador Bernadine Kumi

Programs:

• SA: College Year in Athens

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One unique aspect of my experience studying abroad in Athens was getting my braids done in Kypseli, a predominantly Black neighborhood in a country that is often perceived as predominantly white. This experience was not just about hair but also about connecting with a vibrant community within Athens that often goes unnoticed. Kypseli is a multicultural hub with a strong African and immigrant presence, offering a different side of the city that contrasts with the classical, whitewashed image of Greece.
Getting my braids done there allowed me to connect with Black hair stylists and other clients, sharing stories and learning about the experiences of African immigrants in Greece. It highlighted the importance of finding community and cultural representation, even in unexpected places. Navigating the language barrier and communicating through shared cultural references, gestures, and basic Greek phrases was a powerful reminder of the universality of cultural connections.
This experience was a significant moment of feeling seen and represented abroad, which can be rare in places with smaller Black communities. It also provided a firsthand look at the intersection of race, identity, and migration in Athens. I encourage other students to explore these lesser-known neighborhoods and embrace opportunities to connect with diverse communities while abroad. Kypseli reminded me that cultural exchange goes beyond the classroom—it’s about finding pieces of home in new and unexpected places.

My Experience:

Studying abroad in Athens, Greece, allowed me to directly connect my coursework with the city’s complex human rights and humanitarian landscape. In “The Evolution of Human Rights: From Cyrus to the Global War on Terror,” I gained a deeper appreciation of the historical roots of human rights in a city that has significantly influenced Western political thought. Exploring landmarks like the Acropolis and the Agora helped contextualize my understanding of the origins of democracy and justice, providing a historical backdrop to the evolution of human rights discourse that we studied in class.
In “Humanitarian Crisis Today: Drivers, Response, Prospects,” I observed the impact of humanitarian issues within the urban environment of Athens, a key entry point for refugees arriving in Europe. Engaging with local organizations and speaking with experts offered insights into the practical challenges of humanitarian response, including resource allocation, policy implementation, and community integration efforts. These experiences allowed me to see how theoretical concepts, such as the drivers of displacement and the effectiveness of response mechanisms, manifest in a real-world setting.
Overall, my time in Athens deepened my understanding of the intersection between history, human rights, and humanitarian response. It provided valuable context for my academic studies and aligned with my professional aspirations by enhancing my ability to critically analyze global crises with a localized, historically informed perspective.

Other Highlights:

• One of the highlights of my study abroad experience in Greece was visiting Olympia and Delphi as a lifelong Percy Jackson fan. As someone who grew up immersed in Rick Riordan’s world of demigods, gods, and ancient prophecies, standing in the places that inspired those stories was a surreal experience. In Olympia, I walked through the ruins where the characters in the books competed in chariot races, imagining the gods watching from above. Visiting the Temple of Apollo in Delphi felt like stepping into the pages of the series, standing where the Oracle of Delphi—an essential figure in the Percy Jackson universe—would have once delivered her prophecies. These sites made the myths I loved feel real, connecting my childhood love of the books with the rich history of Greece.

• Another unforgettable experience was sailing around the Greek islands on a boat in Mykonos and exploring the beautiful islands of Paros and Naxos. Cruising the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea, I got to experience the breathtaking beauty of the Cyclades, with their white-washed buildings, charming villages, and stunning beaches. In Paros, I enjoyed exploring the narrow streets of Naoussa, tasting local Greek delicacies, and taking in the island's relaxed vibe. Naxos offered a blend of history and natural beauty, with ancient temples and picturesque mountain villages that felt like stepping back in time.

• From exploring ancient ruins that brought my favorite books to life to sailing through some of the world’s most beautiful islands, my time in Greece was filled with magical moments that I will cherish forever.