Global Greeks in Greece Collaboration Launched With Greek Life and Study Abroad

The Office of Greek Life and the Office of Study Abroad and International Exchange are launching a collaborative initiative to increase experiential learning opportunities through study abroad to all members of Greek Life.  

Global Greeks in Greece, supported by International Studies Abroad, is an expansion of the Global Greeks Program supported by International Students and Scholars Office.  

The original program launched more than a decade ago was designed to allow international students in Fayetteville and Greek students on campus to interact and form networks with each other. In other words, as a Greek organization, members "adopted" an international student, inviting the international student to attend different programs and functions.  

Expanding on the Global Greeks Program goal — to meet new people and learn about different cultures — the Global Greeks in Greece study abroad program will take place for four weeks at the American College of Greece in Athens. While abroad, students will take two courses from various fields, including natural sciences, social sciences, business and economics, information technology, math, tourism and hospitality, as well as visual and performing arts. Greek Life members will also participate in an international day of service. 

"We are so excited to expand the Global Greeks program beyond the borders of our campus," said Parice Bowser, assistant vice chancellor for Greek life and associate dean of students. "Since COVID-19, we have been exploring various ways to strengthen students' engagement on-campus and off-campus. We are filled with gratitude for the support the Office of Study Abroad staff and ISA have lent to help this idea come to fruition, expanding the Global Greeks program to include a study abroad experience at the American College of Greece in Athens." 

Greek Life membership and organizations have grown tremendously under Bowser's leadership since 2008. Providing visionary oversight, she manages four Greek governing councils, seven Greek registered student organizations and 34 national fraternities and sororities consisting of more than 7,800 students. She also works with eight university-managed houses and 16 local house corporations for sororities and fraternities.  

"It takes a village to facilitate study abroad opportunities for students," said Sarah Malloy, director of study abroad and international exchange. "Greek Life members have long participated in programs abroad, like our Rome Center or faculty-led programs. However, this Global Greeks In Greece is a collaboration that marks the first signature study abroad program, which we are so pleased to launch this pilot for summer 2022." 

Enrollment in the program is underway. Students can apply here before International Studies Abroad's March 25 deadline or learn more by contacting your Study Abroad advisor.