In late April, I took a ferry ride to the Greek island of Agistri. From where I sat at the ferry’s bow, I was lulled by the warmth of the Mediterranean and drizzle of rain on my skin. 

My study-abroad housemates joined me on this journey, our adventure infused with the individual spirit of each person. Hannah’s contagious joy and fierce love of the outdoors enhanced our experience. Mariya’s humor, specifically her niche inside jokes, wove us into a close-knit family, while Grace’s generosity and selflessness highlighted joy and comfort in the little moments.

As we approached the dock, the rain  tapered, revealing Agistri’s lush landscape. Stepping onto an island bathed in sunlight felt like a magical transformation. The rugged terrain met the Aegean Sea’s blue expanse. The crystal-clear water lapped at the shore, inviting us to dive into its embrace. It revealed a hidden underwater world, and as I dove in, my worries were lifted and replaced by gratitude.

Amid laughter and swimming, the quaint island’s charm unfolded. The whitewashed buildings with blue accents glistened, the narrow alleys between them held discoveries at every turn. The colorful flowers cascaded over stone walls. The air was a blend of sea, salt, and earth, a promise of the island’s purity.

As the sun cast a warm parting hug and dropped below the horizon, we knew the journey’s end neared, and our study abroad was shortly concluding. Though time dwindled, our day at Agistri reminded us of our countless priceless memories.