Olivia Newsome, Biology Major

I wanted to go on the Mediterranean Trip for several reasons. I had been to China the summer before that, and I really enjoyed traveling and the learning experience that came with the new culture, and I wanted to be able to experience Italy, Greece, and Egypt as well.

I am from a very small town in West Virginia called Jumping Branch, and not many people there have the opportunity to travel the world, and I wanted to take advantage of the wonderful trips that are offered by the Leadership Department. Also, I really wanted to travel to Egypt because of all the biblical history there, I thought that it would provide such a supplemental and awesome experience to my faith since I had grown up in the church.

Italy and Greece were amazing, and I really enjoyed them, but I must say that my favorite part of the trip was the time we spent in Egypt. It was extremely hot there, however I was able to see so much history. From the Great Pyramids to King Tut's tomb and sarcophagus, it was an unforgettable moment in time. I was also able to scuba dive while in Alexandria, and I brought home some frankincense and myrrh for my church to smell, because that is something that the majority of my church family had never or would never be able to do.

The trips are almost magical in a sense, because the things that you are able to experience are so surreal. Who would ever imagine that a small town girl like me would travel to Africa and float down the Nile river, hold baby crocodiles, and stand on the Great Pyramids that were built so long ago. I never thought that I would be able to travel the world, but I am so thankful for the Leadership Department and Marietta College for providing these once in a lifetime opportunities.