Lee Beauchamp, a senior at the University of Northern Iowa, is currently studying abroad in Athens, at the American College of Greece. 

Beauchamp is an Interactive Digital Studies major at UNI, and is concentrating on 3D and motion graphics, team management, video directing and post-production at ACG. 

Both UNI and ACG are celebrating their sesquicentennial milestones this year.

“It feels amazing having my final year highlighted by pretty big celebrations for both the institutions I’m attending,” Beauchamp said. “It makes it all the more special being abroad, and then coming back home to a very jubilant time.”

While both universities are celebrating this large milestone, Beauchamp noticed how UNI has a larger array of celebration events than ACG. Beauchamp said, “There is more importance on personal time with others, rather than campus events at ACG.”

The American College of Greece held a large event in September honoring the new president of the institution, Edward Wingenbach. Beauchamp said that all major celebrations of the year were packed into this event. 

This is a difference that Beauchamp has had to adapt to. Beauchamp is deeply involved in organizations and events at UNI, such as the American Advertising Federation.

“I was pretty used to running around a lot due to how involved I am at UNI,” Beauchamp said.
“Life is generally slower in Greece, which has allowed me to take a breath.”

UNI has hundreds of opportunities for students who are interested in studying abroad. While the idea of being away from home for months may be nerve-wracking, it’s an experience that those who do study abroad treasure for their lifetimes.

“Even though taking the jump to study over here was stressful and scary at times, I can definitely say that it is a choice I would never take back,” Beauchamp added.