Study Abroad Testimonies

Carter Cooper Junior, Biomedical Science
War eagle! My name is Carter Cooper. I am from Gadsden, Alabama. I am a junior majoring in biomedical science in the hopes of becoming a dentist or doctor. I recently went on the Mediterranean Diet Study Abroad trip. It was the trip of a lifetime and probably the best four weeks of my life.

I was hesitant to embark on the trip. Prior to the trip, I had never been outside of the country without family. Also, I was the only male student planning on going on the trip. Looking back, I am so thankful I put these worries aside and took part in such an incredible experience.

The first part of the trip took place in Rome, Italy. While in Rome, we were able to visit historical masterpieces such as the Colosseum, Parthenon, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, Piazza Navona, Roman Forum, and the Vatican City. Each day we were able to explore local markets and try their fruit, veggies, and produce. We ate at local restaurants and enjoyed their cuisine. We visited wineries, olive oil producers, and fruit producers and sampled their products. After Rome we traveled south along the coast. We went to even more wineries, olive oil producers, farmers, and restaurants. We were able to compare the diet as we went south. While on the coast we went fishing, sailing, and spent time on the beach.

After two weeks in Italy, we went to Greece. We ate at even more restaurants, sampled more olive oils and wines, and went on even more excursions. We went to thermal springs, waterfalls, hiked Mount Olympus, and sailed the Greek islands.

Throughout the trip, I was able to learn so much. The Mediterranean diet is a lifestyle that focuses on physical activity and social life. The food is dictated by the season and what is ripe. The trip was an experience that I will never forget. It was the best field trip I have ever been on. It was the best time of my life that I would repeat in a heartbeat.