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ACG Trustee Vana Lavidas with Ioanna Toutsidi
Vana Lavidas (DEREE ’79), American College of Greece Trustee and President of MDA Hellas, a charity for children with muscular dystrophy she founded, met with DEREE’s study abroad student Ioanna Toutsidi.
Ioanna attended Pukyong National University in Bousan, South Korea from February to June 2015, studying Korean Language, Economic and European Integration – International Business and more. She is a sophomore, who plans on getting her degree in Finance in June ’18.
During the meeting, Ioanna thanked Ms. Vana Lavidas for her generosity, while the two discussed Ioanna’s study abroad experience in South Korea, and her overall plans.
Ioanna says that her motto in life is “You will never know your limits unless you push yourself to them.”
She also describes her study abroad experience as “a unique lifetime experience for me that will help me excel in my life; a challenge that all students should accept. It broadened my horizons, I’ve learned a new culture and language, advanced my skills, and acquired adaptation skills. I’ve grown personally and become an articulate individual,” Ioanna notes.
Following is a Q & A with Ioanna Toutsidi:
Q: What are three enduring lessons you learned during your studies at DEREE?
A: Never Give Up – If you really want something and you try hard you will get it – Work hard
Q: Describe DEREE in three words.
A: Challenge – Commitment – Guidance
Q: One of your favorite DEREE memories?
A: Orientation sessions and final exams
Q: What will you miss most from your days at DEREE?
A: Everything, the campus, professors, employers…
Q: Where is your favorite spot on campus?
A: Front lawn!
Q: What’s the greatest piece of advice you’ve ever received?
A: Don’t wish for it. Work for it! And remember to look up.
Q: What (or who) inspires you most?
A: My father.