Today was another beautiful day in Athens. We began the day by taking the metro to the UNIC Athens campus and attending a lecture on venom and polypeptides, run by Dr. Ionnis Sargiannis, a professor in the Life & Health Sciences department. In this lecture, we learned about the formation of different proteins and peptides from the 20 standard amino acids. Using the AlphaFold website, you can make your own polypeptide and test its effects. This allows researchers to study the creation of new peptides and their effects, leading to better medicines and cures for venom. After the lecture, we took the metro to Kolonaki, where we roamed around the nice, affluent areas and had lunch. For lunch, I had linguini with minced meat, and it was absolutely delicious! Next, we had a guided tour of the Benaki Museum, where we viewed artworks by Greeks throughout history. I learned that Greece obtained independence in 1829 after revolting against the Ottoman Empire. Finally, we had a guided tour of Lykavittos, which is one of the scenic viewpoints of Athens at the top of a mountain. We took a Duquesne-Incline-like contraption up to the top of the mountain, and the views were absolutely stunning. Tomorrow, we visit the beach, and I am so excited!


