Exploring ancient runes, swimming in the Aegean sea, racing in the stadium where the Olympic games began, and sleeping under the stars next to sea turtle nests — these are just some of the highlights from this year's trip to Greece for 16 SMUS Grade 8 students.
These moments were part of a 10-day journey through Greece, from June 25 to July 3, that blended hands-on learning with once-in-a-lifetime experiences. From ancient ruins to meaningful service, the trip extended classroom learning into the real world and deepened students’ connection to history, culture and each other.
One particularly meaningful experience came on the second day, when the group participated in a coastal service project through Archelon, Greece’s sea turtle protection society. Working along Kyparissia Bay — one of the largest loggerhead turtle nesting sites in the Mediterranean — students helped protect hatchling nests as part of SMUS Middle School’s on-going partnership with the organization. This year, the school adopted three protected nests, and one student, Elyse, even chose to sponsor a hatchling herself, carrying the impact of the experience beyond the trip.
That night, while preparing to sleep under the stars, students used special red-light flashlights that wouldn’t disturb the turtles and witnessed one laying an astonishing 85 eggs.
Throughout the journey, students reflected on how their classroom learning connected with what they saw and experienced, whether it was recognizing Doric columns from Social Studies or drawing connections between mythology and ancient ruins. It’s one thing to read about Greek gods and temples and another to stand there and feel the history under your feet.
Among the trip’s most enduring traditions is a visit to the Olympic-sized community pool in Kyparissia — a site with deep significance for both SMUS and local youth. In 2015, Grade 8 students helped restore the space by repairing gates, railings and the pool deck. Today, the facility is a training hub for the NOKY triathlon club, and each new cohort adds to a mural that was first painted in collaboration with local children. This year’s group also joined NOKY youth for an aquathlon — a spirited swim-and-run event that reflected the spirit of cultural exchange and connection at the heart of the trip.
"I feel so blessed to work in such an incredible community where creating opportunities for students to learn and grow beyond the classroom is a reality that continues year after year," shared Middle School science teacher Riley McQueen Doland, who has been leading the program since the first trip in 2015. “I don't think any other international trip at SMUS has lasted this long, and it truly speaks to the collaboration of teachers, local partners, supportive families, and previous Middle School directors.”
Among those early champions were the Vincent family, who have had four children attend and graduate from SMUS, and have been supporters and participants of the trip each year. A former Director of SMUS Middle School, Xavier Abrioux, was also a key contributor to the program.
"His belief in the value of experiential learning helped bring this trip's vision to life," added Doland. "Xavier joined us on the trip for several years and left a lasting impact on the program's direction and spirit."
In a country where history and tradition are woven into every landscape, it feels especially fitting that the SMUS trip to Greece has grown into a tradition in its own right — one that fosters lasting connections year after year.
From Greek dancing on the beach to exploring ancient sites tied to mythology and famous battles, this trip offered more than a passport stamp. It gave students a chance to step outside their comfort zones, build stronger friendships and grow as global citizens, returning home with a deeper appreciation for history, culture, and their own capacity to make a difference.
As they look ahead to Grade 9 in September, these travelled students can carry their summer experience with them, feeling more confident, connected, and prepared for the exciting challenges of Senior School.
Read more about the Greece trip in the student blog: It’s All Greek to Me 2025!
SMUS Grade 8 students in Greece. A view of the water and ancient ruins.
SMUS Grade 8 students in Greece. Exploring caves.
SMUS Grade 8 students in Greece. Overlooking ancient ruins.
SMUS Grade 8 students in Greece. Running on a beach to the water.
