ZervosT1

My name is Thanos Zervos, I am a Junior majoring in Finance and Accounting with a minor in Economics. Since I was a kid, I have loved traveling the world and exploring different cultural backgrounds! Growing up in Washington D.C, I was highly exposed to different cultures, beliefs, and traditions enabling me to see the world from multiple perspectives. Throughout high school, I had the opportunity to put my interest of international concepts to work. Taking part in the International Baccalaureate program, I was able to practice mental agility by knowing how people think and understand concepts around the world. While this was only applicable in the classroom, I aspired to create an opportunity for myself which would allow me to apply it to the world personally, academically, and professionally.

Since graduating from High School with an International Baccalaureate Diploma, all efforts throughout my college experience have been in attempt to gain international more international exposure. Through taking part in Pitt’s Plus3 program analyzing the business side of Ecuador’s chocolate industry, I was able to learn strategies to globalize an industry. During my summer entering Junior year, I had the opportunity to intern with an international aerospace manufacturing company where I worked firsthand with teams in India, Mexico, and parts of Europe. Finally, during the same Summer, I took the initiative to re-establish the Society of International Business in hopes of exposing Pitt students to international concepts, study abroad programs, and internship opportunities. With these experiences under my belt, I saw the next best opportunity to continue my passion of international business by partaking in Pitt’s Global Business Institute Florence.

The first day of moving to Florence, was a nerve-racking rollercoaster mixed with excitement. I was unsure of what to expect with my living situation, my class structures, and meeting new people. I came to Florence not knowing my roommates beforehand, but thankfully it has been a great experience in the residential dorm style housing! We have travelled and created great memories together all over Europe. Living amongst the locals in a residential neighborhood away from the tourist chaos, I feel I’ve been able to fully immerse myself in the Italian culture. Adapting to the culture was difficult at the beginning since I still thought of myself as a tourist. However, the men at the local coffee shop across my house have made me feel welcomed to the city! Buying my daily coffee there, I have been able to practice my Italian and learn the cultural norms of dining while connecting 1-on-1 with the locals.

Overall, the buildup to moving was stressful and daunting. However, I knew this was something I’ve been wanting to do for my entire life. Having such a strong understanding of how to think internationally, I aim to seize each day, and make the most of this once in a lifetime experience.