Discovered by samim_hasan on alphacoders.com
THOMAS KATOPODIS
COUNTRY
Greece
Current School
Kellam High School
How did you feel when you learned you’d be moving to the Hampton Roads area in the US?
Excited but anxious of what is to come.
Was the educational system in the US different from your home country’s? If so, do you prefer it or not, and why?
The educational system in my country varies greatly from that of the United States. I do prefer the US one better.
Did you keep in touch with your friends and relatives from where you previously lived? If yes, what method worked best, and/or how often are you able to contact them?
Yes, with relatives we mostly talk through social media (messenger, instagram etc.) . With my friends I still use social media and discord.
Are you in touch with any other NATO officer kids? Tell us a few things about that experience.
Yes. It helps you feel a little like home
What do you usually do for fun after moving here? Do you have any suggestions for activities we could try?
I like going to the Recreation Center, rock climbing, the arcade, watching movies, and playing paintball. Some suggestions would be Fox Brothers Paintball Park and Lattitude Rock Climbing Gym.
Have you been on any trips within the US or to the surrounding countries? If yes, tell us a few things about the experience and make some suggestions on what the rest of us could try.
Yes, during my first year here we went to Denver for Christmas and Mexico for the summer. Last year we went to New York City for Christmas and Vegas for the summer. This year we visited Boston. It was fun experiencing life in the different states and countries, and also the food was great.
Are you involved in any extracurricular activities either in your school or in outside organizations? Tell us about your experience.
Yes, I started playing Varsity Football and Wrestling
How did the language barrier (if applicable) affect your experience? Do you have any tips for future newcomers struggling with learning English?
There was not really a huge language barrier. I have been interacting with people from the US and UK for several years now mostly through games, and even the ingame communication has been a great way to practice.
What are a few difficulties you faced when moving to the US that you haven’t already mentioned?
I can’t think of any.
What do you wish you had already known before moving to the US?
Nothing, it would ruin all the fun of exploring something new.