I grew up in a small village but the limitations I encountered in my region are now the fuel that motivates me to achieve more and more every day; they keep me focused and confident every step of the way. For example, the economic situation is tough but thanks to my academic excellence, I am always able to find a solution or even a scholarship. Other than that, I am passionate about physics and a very competitive person who never gives up. I believe that the competitive and leadership environment that the SUSI exchange program offers will be a great opportunity. This program will allow me to push to my limits and I hope to contribute a combination of motivation, inspiration, and knowledge. In exchange, my participation will affect my local community in multiple ways. I will be able to apply the skills that I will learn to make changes and inspire people in the city where I reside for my studies. For example, there are many heavy industries in the surrounding areas that pollute and damage the environment. So far, I have tried and failed to raise awareness. Possessing the necessary skills may help me achieve this goal. Last but not least, my participation will be beneficial to me on a professional level as it would give me the opportunity to make long-lasting contacts and to familiarize with the U.S. culture. If I were to decide to continue my studies in the U.S after graduation then those assets might prove very helpful. In addition, participation will help me acquire knowledge about academic sessions and subtopics such as sustainable development and social justice. My journey as a small village boy who travels to the U.S to participate in the international Student Leaders program feels like an amazing dream come true.

I study Agriculture at the Agricultural University of Athens with a specialization in Crop Science. Climate change, natural resources and their equitable distribution, combined with food security were the main reasons why I chose Agriculture as my field of expertise. I want to focus on plant breeding with a view to food security. Sustainability, the legacy we leave to future generations, is an issue that concerned me since my childhood. This is why, in parallel to my major, I do a minor degree in Sustainable Development and I have attended courses in natural disasters and their management, protected areas and recovery of endangered species, hydrobiology and climate change. I also study classical guitar and Advanced Music Theory at the National Conservatory of Athens and practice Shotokan Karate. I constantly seek new knowledge, new stimuli and strive to become better and more spherically informed because this is in my opinion the duty of the scientist and citizen of modern society. As for my dreams and visions, I believe that life is a journey through knowledge, time, the world, emotions and experiences, and that our goal is to make this journey as rich, exciting, interesting and beautiful as possible. If we can combine this with helping make the world a better place then our life is complete and meaningful. I also have a special dream of playing Concierto de Aranjuez (my favorite music piece of all time) at a classical guitar concert with a large orchestra accompanying me.

I cannot express my happiness and excitement for the upcoming Summer Institute on Environmental Issues. I am ready to fully participate and my plan is to seize every opportunity and fill my mind and soul with new knowledge and stimuli. My goal is to make the most of the process, contribute to achieve the program’s objectives and return home as a scientist with a clearer view on issues of global significance. This is undoubtedly a once in a lifetime opportunity. I am sure that I will only gain positive experiences and that the benefits will be much more than I can already dream of. Nevada here I come!!!