Back in May, students from Queen Margaret University took part in a Short Term Mobility trip to Athens, Greece to meet with staff from our partner organisation, Metropolitan College. While this trip was an opportunity to learn more about sustainability, the students shared with us the positive impact that going on this trip had on each of them:
Embarking on a student mobility trip to Athens was an experience that blended academic learning, cultural discovery, and personal growth in ways that we hadn’t anticipated. More than just an academic opportunity, this trip challenged us in unfamiliar ways - navigating a foreign transport system, demonstrating initiative in unexpected situations, and forming meaningful friendships with fellow students. In reflection, it was not only a valuable experience but one we would absolutely do again.
If I could describe this trip in one word it would be nothing short of astounding
From exploring the architectural design of the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center (SNFCC) to engaging with Athens Metropolitan College, this trip gave us a good insight into how Greece views sustainability. This journey was a deep dive into learning both inside and outside the classroom.
Lectures with Metropolitan College
This trip allowed for us to attend some lectures and presentations at Metropolitan College in Greece. These sessions, led by local lecturers and professionals, offered invaluable insights into the environmental challenges and innovative responses within Greece. The lectures broadened our understanding of sustainability beyond a purely environmental lens, emphasising the social, economic, and cultural dimensions as well. We found it particularly eye-opening to explore how Greece, with its unique geography and economic constraints, approaches sustainability differently than we do in Scotland.
Meeting these lecturers was a great experience for which I am truly grateful as they gave me some amazing information I likely wouldn’t have learned anywhere else
These lectures reinforced the idea that sustainability is not a standalone concept, but an integrated goal that must be pursued across disciplines and communities. Seeing it applied in Athens, a historically significant country, was eye opening and we came away with a greater appreciation for preserving history and a stronger commitment to practice sustainably.
The lectures we had were very inspirational to get an insight into sustainability from another country’s perspective, as we don’t hear about this often
One of the most engaging aspects of the trip was the opportunity to present our own thoughts and feelings on sustainability. For example, while Scotland may focus heavily on renewable energy sources like wind, Greece’s focus on solar energy and water conservation which is more fitting for its climate and resources. These discussions allowed us to reflect critically on how global sustainability goals can be adapted to suit more local situations.
Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center (SNFCC)
One of the standout moments of this trip was visiting the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center (SNFCC), a stunning building that features a green roof and houses both the National Library of Greece and the National Opera House. This striking architectural landmark represents a fusion of innovation, sustainability, and cultural engagement. Walking through its halls, we were struck by the commitment to accessibility and creativity, particularly in how it serves as a gathering place for education and artistic expression.
Learning about how the SNFCC incorporates green spaces, renewable energy solutions, and community-focused design helped us see the tangible outcomes of sustainable development. The building's use of natural light, green roofing and public accessibility highlights how the thoughtful design benefits both the people and the land built on.
Exploring Athens
We stayed in a beautiful hotel right in the centre of Athens which meant everything was fairly close by. Gemma Blackledge-Foughali (Senior Lecturer in Management) and Laura Stevenson (International Officer) had organised our trip in an amazing way which made our days balanced and fun. We explored some iconic landmarks, alongside indulging in a bit of shopping in the local markets and sampling the local cuisine.
One of my favourite highlights was hiring the e-scooters and scooting about the city, seeing sights while also having laughs with my fellow students!
We also took a day trip to Aegina Island, where we took a ferry there and back. The scenery was stunning, and the people were incredible welcoming.
Towards the end of our stay in Athens, we went to the Acropolis where we were able to learn even more about Greek culture. It was incredible to see such a historic building that means so much to the country and the world alike up close.
We spent our final morning packing up, and got one last breakfast in before we headed down to the lobby to check out. We had a final bit of free time to explore or revisit favourite places before a last group meal and headed back to the airport.
After getting on the flight, we were all exhausted, evidence of an amazing trip.
Final Thoughts
While the academic and cultural insights were invaluable, the friendships we formed on this trip were equally transformative. It is without question that we have all bonded as part of this trip - very different people, coming together to make the most of this fantastic opportunity.
Traveling in a group, particularly in an unfamiliar city, required teamwork and adaptability. We had many shared challenges along the way, whether figuring out public transport routes, deciding where to eat, navigating language barriers or having last-minute ferry cancellations which almost left us stranded on a Greek Island!
Overall, this trip was not only academically enriching but also personally inspiring. We returned home with a renewed commitment to sustainability and a broader understanding of the challenges and opportunities it presents.
With Thanks
I made many new friends on this trip and got closer to my lecturers which wouldn’t have been possible without Gemma and Laura for organising this and for the funders of this trip who have allowed us this priceless opportunity that I will always be grateful for and hold dear to me – Wardah Sheikh
I’d firstly like to thank Gemma & Laura from QMU who organised, planned and ultimately made the trip such a success for myself and the rest of the students who came on the trip - we are all so grateful to have been part of this experience and have learnt lots of valuable lessons from the trip – Cooper MacDonald
I am sincerely grateful for the opportunity I was given to visit Greece and immerse myself in its culture - Isoken Onaghise
Overall, I am entirely grateful to the donors of this trip and to QMU as well. This was really a once in a lifetime opportunity and I am so happy to have these memories with my new friends - Grace Allan
I have benefited in more ways than I can explain from this trip and want to give a huge thank you to the funding that made it possible and Gemma and Laura for organising it all – Rachel Cunningham
Overall, this trip was a great experience, and I feel grateful to be a part of the group that went - Zara Gill
My experience in Greece was one I don’t think I would have been able to do without the university’s support. It is one of the most incredible opportunities I will ever get. I am so grateful to all involved including funders, Gemma and Laura who took us on the trip and the amazing group of people I went with. Thank you for making this a trip one I will never forget - Amy Grant
I enjoyed the trip a lot, I learned a lot, and I experienced a lot. I loved this trip, and it really was something to remember for life - Daniel Dempster
