Discovered by Abandoned on alphacoders.com
OLGA KATOPODI
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?
Leaving my comfort hometown, my family, and my esteemed memories behind was an emotional crossroad, or shall I say, “It was all Greek to me”. While adapting to this new life, homesickness occasionally crept into my heart. But every time I felt overwhelmed, I reminded myself that this one-time experience had introduced me to exploring new horizons and embracing growth.
Was the educational system in the US different from your home country’s? If so, do you prefer it or not, and why?
The language barrier was perhaps the most significant challenge I faced. Navigating a new educational system, while engaging in English as a second language was intimidating. The US educational system was most definitely a lot different that the Greek one, adapting into it was most a challenge. if I had to pick, i would chose the American one, since you have a lot more freedom with what you want to study and what your interests are. there are also a great amount of clubs that can match those interests.
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?
I have lived in the US for about 3 years now, and I am heading into college; in the past 3 years, I haven’t gotten the chance to go back; however, I have kept close contact with almost all of my friends from my country. With most of them, I talked once a week or once a month, rather than I do with my closest friends and family, which I talk to every day. The best method of contacting is usually social media and Facetime.
Are you in touch with any other NATO officer kids? Tell us a few things about that experience.
I am in touch with a bunch of NATO kids, some Greek and others from different countries. I am grateful that I have gotten to know them since they bring a sense of home to my everyday life. I have also met NATO kids from other countries, which have most definitely shaped my thinking and given me a new perspective on many subjects. I have learned a lot about different traditions and dialects.
What do you usually do for fun after moving here? Do you have any suggestions for activities we could try?
I suggest signing up for a rec pass, it is super fun to workout, hang out with friends, swim in the pool, play games etc. I like going to Lynnhaven Mall and town center as well as going to Busch gardens, which is an adventure park with roller coasters. And I also enjoy going to Redmill mall, which is a outside mall close to my house, which has food places, clothing stores etc.
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.
I have visited about 25 states, and my favorite long-distance ones were Colorado, California, New York, and Boston, and for distance, I love North Carolina. All these states provide different types of entertainment. Colorado is a great place to go if you like the snow and mountains; on the other hand, California. is warm, fun, and very different from your usual Europe; the rich blend of people and entrainment is definitely one to think about. New York and Boston are quite similar since they are both really big and serve an urban city scenery, which is one that I love. Hands down, though, my favorite vacation was in Mexico, where I got to spend it with my family over summer break. There is a lot of history and crystal waters as well as great food.
Are you involved in any extracurricular activities either in your school or in outside organizations? Tell us about your experience.
I have been rowing for Coastal Virginia Community Rowing for the past 2 years, I have founded the rowing club at Kellam High School and I am a part of German Club. I am also active in both of the Orthodox churches in the Norfolk / Virginia Beach district. I am super grateful that I have gotten to reciprocate back to this country after all the support and heartwarming welcome that Americans have given me.
How did the language barrier (if applicable) affect your experience? Do you have any tips for future newcomers struggling with learning English?
The language barrier is definitely one that might take some time to overcome; if you are still in middle – high school, the language can sometimes be intimidating, but from what I have experienced so far, natives love accents, and they are very interested in getting to know about it.
What are a few difficulties you faced when moving to the US that you haven’t already mentioned?
I wouldn’t call it a difficulty but more of a change is that your usual walk distance and hang out with friends every day will change. Living in the US, you will shape a new life schedule.
What do you wish you had already known before moving to the US?
Many times I found myself wishing that I would be back in my hometown; now, coming to the end of my last high school year, I look back, and I regret that often times I didn’t enjoy it as much as I should have. Time passes fast, so make the most of it.