Ag Boilers Abroad
Planning your next trip abroad? Learn about key strategies and experiences through the adventures of students and faculty in the Ag Boilers Abroad series. With over 400 programs in 60 countries on six continents, ranging from a week to a semester, Purdue College of Agriculture students have an abundance of study-abroad opportunities.
In Greece, Ava Ralston gained a deeper understanding of food science and a new perspective on the world — one orange slice at a time.
A semester at Perrotis College/American Farm School in Thessaloniki, Greece, became an unforgettable opportunity to immerse herself in agriculture, food science and a completely new culture.
“I chose Perrotis College because it’s an agriculturally focused school, and I could study food science from a new perspective,” said Ralston, who took courses in dairy technology, viticulture and olive production. “I already knew I wanted to study abroad in Europe, and Greece offered both the academic opportunities I wanted and the chance to live in one of the most beautiful places in the world.”
To prepare, Ralston created a PowerPoint to learn about Greek customs, traditions and food, and she practiced basic Greek with the Duolingo app. Once in Greece, the study abroad advisors at Perrotis provided an orientation about cultural differences.
“They explained things like gestures that could mean something entirely different in Greece than in the U.S. It helped me avoid awkward or offensive situations and made me more mindful of my actions,” she said.
One of Ralston’s most memorable experiences happened at a bustling open market.
While exploring with other exchange students, we came across a stand selling blood oranges. The two vendors greeted us with huge smiles and started handing out orange slices to try. It was such a small gesture, but it was a beautiful example of Greek hospitality — and something I’ll never forget,” she said.
The semester wasn’t just about academics or cultural exploration. It was also a time of personal growth.
“As an introvert, going to a country where I didn’t know anyone was a huge step outside my comfort zone,” Ralston said. At Perrotis, all students eat lunch together at the same time, providing a natural setting to build relationships.
Now is the time to study abroad
“I spent so much time getting to know the other exchange students and local students during meals and trips. By the end of the semester, I felt more confident in my ability to connect with people and ask about their life stories.”
Challenges, of course, were part of the experience. Ralston had to adjust to the Greek concept of time, which is more flexible than the punctuality-focused culture in the United States.
“People often showed up late to meetings or class, and events would run longer than planned. It was an adjustment, but it taught me patience,” she said.
Despite the challenges, Ralston wholeheartedly recommends the program to other students.
“The campus is quiet and peaceful, but just a bus ride away from the city. Academically, I loved the hands-on learning — whether it was working in the dairy facilities, vineyards or olive groves. Personally, it pushed me to grow in ways I hadn’t expected.”
For Ralston, studying abroad was an unforgettable chapter of her college experience. “I would recommend a semester abroad to anyone who’s interested,” she said. “It’s the most cost-effective way to travel, and it gives you enough time to immerse yourself in another culture. It’s an experience you’ll carry with you for the rest of your life.”
Students Engaged in Study Abroad Adventures
How to prepare for your study abroad program?
- Research cultural aspects of the country you’re traveling to
- Research the weather at the time of year you’re traveling
- Pack light — try to bring only a carry-on
- Talk to peers who have already embarked on a study abroad or traveled abroad
