Alexis Hammerling, Plus3 Cyprus Summer 2025
If I could give one overarching piece of advice to anyone preparing to study abroad on a program like this, it would be to come mentally prepared for a fast-paced, highly scheduled experience that leaves little room for downtime. When I initially signed up for the program, I expected there to be structured blocks of free time — time to relax, reflect, or explore at my own pace. However, the reality was that each day began very early, usually around 8:00 a.m., and didn’t wrap up until around 8:00 p.m. While this might sound overwhelming, it’s important to understand that the schedule is designed to maximize your exposure to the country’s business environment, culture, and daily life. It took me a couple of days to mentally adjust to the intensity of the program, but once I did, I found ways to truly enjoy the experience. Instead of wishing for more free time, I made the most of the time we had. For example, my friends and I took advantage of late evenings by heading to the beach near our hotel or taking long walks along the Limassol boardwalk. As we explored the city, we were able to learn more about each other and our friendships blossomed. These moments of exploration made the days feel fuller and more meaningful. One huge highlight of every day for me was the food. I would start each morning with breakfast which was included at both hotels we stayed in. Most days lunch was scheduled during program time, and we had a few group meals with the university. We went out for dinner every night and got to try a wide variety of Cypriot dishes. I recommend that future participants pack with the climate and schedule in mind: comfortable shoes are a must, especially for walking during company visits, and breathable, flowy clothes will help with the Mediterranean heat. I would also encourage students to use every moment of unstructured time to either explore Cyprus or connect with the people around them. Whether it’s chatting with a local coffee shop owner or simply laughing with your peers after a long day. Those moments are what you’ll remember the most. Lastly, come in with an open mind. It is an adjustment at first to a new time zone, new schedule, new foods, and new social settings but those challenges are what make the experience so rewarding. It’s not just a study abroad program; it’s an opportunity to grow personally, culturally, and academically!
Leave a Reply