ACS Athens - American Community Schools

Reflections

There comes a moment in time...
when the journey down memory lane becomes truly alive...

ACS Athens parents talk with nostalgia about their childhood years and are reminiscent of their adventures and experiences from the past.
They reflect on their life changes and successes and express their gratitude and commitment towards ACS Athens.

Mr. Athinodoros Papandreou

Neurosurgeon
Father of Panos and George

What do you remember from your school days and how would you describe yourself as a child?

Well, I went to a small private school close to my house during my Elementary years that had a friendly family environment. This was actually a contrasting picture to Varvakeio Middle and High school in the center of Athens that I attended later. I still remember with great joy my whereabouts with my peers in my neighborhood and in the center of Athens, which allowed me to discover corners of my city and solidify bonding with my friends. I was a timid boy by nature, and rather quiet, but had an inquisitive and studious personality and from this aspect I...

Ms. Christina Dutton-Karanikos

Founder of Dutton & Co.
Mother of Ian and Natalia

Which school did you go to and what do you remember from your school days?

...I remember for example, that we learned what a mile was by actually walking a mile. Another moment that comes to my mind is when I was taught about the middle ages and how the fields were planted. The school had an extraordinary way of explaining things to children in a way that would remain with them forever. If you now ask me what a manor house layout looked like in the Middle Ages, I could draw it for you. For me, that’s the way one should teach...

Mr. Nikos Koumettis

President of Coca Cola, Central & Southern Europe
Father of Petros and Felicia

Do you think that one’s personality determines the kind of job they will have in the future?

Success requires the right skills and capabilities, the right timing and the right people (mentors) who will guide you. Finally if you see your job as a hobby, then you will have more than 80% chance to be very good at what you do.

Although I have a very intense and difficult job, I don’t see it as a job, but as a hobby. I enjoy all aspects of what I do and this brings me great satisfaction...

Ms. Vanessa Adam

Harpist and Co-Founder of ADaM Productions & Badminton Theater
Mother of Ares and Orestes

What message would you like to share with the ACS community?

My motto, following the turmoil in Greece is, "put it in perspective and enjoy what you have". Everybody is feeling the upheaval and so we need to stay united and hold onto what we have, until the situation in Greece stabilizes again.

As for the school, I have been with ACS for ten years, and I have embraced the changes and the struggle towards these changes. I embrace change, as change brings development and development brings opportunities and success...