Hey everyone! My name is Thanos Zervos and I am a Freshman from Arlington, Virginia currently attending University of Pittsburgh pursuing a Finance degree with a minor in accounting. I am a member of Pitt’s Plus3 Program and will be traveling south (and north) of the equator to Ecuador! During these travels I will be studying chocolate and flowers (which I love, as you can see on my lapel). Other than Plus3, I am currently involved in the business fraternity, Alpha Kappa Psi, Panther Equity, LEAP, and I hold the Quad Hall Council Treasurer position. I’ve always enjoyed being involved in extracurriculars as they open up for opportunities in my life. I’ve always been told to take every opportunity offered to you, as you don’t know where it will take you in life. So, with this advice, I took advantage of Pitt’s Plus3 Program, and don’t regret it for a second.
I graduated from Washington-Liberty (WL) High School, in Arlington, VA, with a Full International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma. Studying as an IB student, I was taught of the possibilities that the world holds for you, from an experience based mindset, as well as perspective. During the college search, I heavily weighed my options based on this concept as well as the study abroad opportunities offered. Pitt’s Plus3 caught my eye in a heartbeat. I saw it as a once in a lifetime opportunity to journey through a location where I wouldn’t have the same opportunity to do so. With flowers and chocolates just adding to the whole experience! When the time of applications being released came around, I knew I’d put myself through any amount of work to make it happen. So, I edited my essays, and practiced my interview endlessly to ensure my dream could become reality. I was jolted with excitement as I was accepted into the program and couldn’t believe my eyes!
On top of seeing the world from an IB student lens, my interest in traveling doubled as I backpacked through Greece the Summer prior to college. Starting the journey with a 1 week Greek Archdiocese camp, I jumped around the country learning about my culture, heritage, and faith creating an unforgettable experience. Having such an amazing experience, I extended my trip an extra 2 weeks to further travel the country with locals I met via the camp. They showed me the side of Greece I would have never imagined. My perspective of the world was broadened exponentially as I understood the ways of life in different countries and cultures. I am excited to be able to gain an even better, different, perspective as I travel to Ecuador and adapt to the new environment.
