Hello everyone, my name is Apostolos. Originally I am from Greece but the last 7 years I am residing in Bulgaria, where I took my bachelor studies in musical pedagogy, pop and jazz guitar. Right now I am finishing up my thesis for my master’s degree in PR of art organisations.
Why did you decide to study abroad?
The decision to study abroad was pretty spontaneous as I had only 2 weeks to think about it since I was studying for a bachelor’s degree in Slavic philology back in Greece. Long story short I wasn’t so happy with my studies and since I was always with a guitar on my hands or doing musical things in general I decided that the best course of action was to study something that I really like doing, a decision that I think was for the best.
What has it given you?
I won’t lie, it was challenging. From learning a new language which is unique by itself to socializing to being ok with my studies. But in the end after all those years I think that all those experiences gave me wisdom, patience, great memories, friends and acquaintances, and lots of knowledge to use in life. Also I think the cultural influence I got from Bulgaria will stay with me for the rest of my life.
If you could give advice to a younger person who is about to study abroad, what would you tell them?
Be open minded, try to meet new people, study the culture, experience everything as a whole. Don’t get closed to yourself with your compatriots at a small circle. Learn the language of the country you are staying. You will be surprised how many doors will open instantly and how much more respect you will get from the people around you.
You have just begun your mentoring journey, mentoring an 11-year-old boy. What motivated you to become a mentor?
My biggest motivation to begin mentoring I think is the fact that I love sharing knowledge with other people. And since this program is cultural mentoring I feel right at home. Also I think another factor is that I think mentoring is a two way process. I also learn from the whole process, about myself, about culture, about how to communicate with a kid at this age and lots of other things so it feels exciting in a way and I can’t wait to see where that journey take us.