Reflections and Emotions from an Academic Year

"Build schools.
Simple, small, clean, low-built,
With large windows to let in abundant light.
Let the air flow freely in and out,
Filled with brightness and freshness.
Not adorned with luxuries and decorations,
But with soul and care."

-Kostis Palamas, “Build the Schools”

Reflections and Emotions from an Academic Year

My dear students,

How quickly time has passed! It feels like only yesterday we first met — with that initial anxiety and cautious curiosity in your eyes — and yet, here I am today, saying farewell, full of emotion and joy.

We shared a year full of intensity, laughter, questions, discoveries, and moments that — I truly believe — we will never forget. We experienced beautiful times, as well as challenging ones. And through it all, I feel that we were not merely teacher and students. We were a team, a circle, a small community of people striving to learn, to understand, to reach for something real.

And to me personally, you were something much more: you were an inspiration.
You reminded me why I love what I do. Every question, every observation, even every silence of yours offered me something valuable. You were living proof that knowledge only has meaning when it is shared with the soul.

Now that you are completing this part of your journey, I cannot help but feel proud. Not just for what you’ve achieved, but — even more so — for who you are: people who think, who feel, who carry values and inner light.

I know the world ahead of you won’t always be easy. But I see you, and I know you can face it. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Don’t be afraid to change direction. Never forget who you are and what truly matters.

And above all, remember that somewhere here, there will always be someone thinking of you with love, and rejoicing every time she hears of one of her “own children” moving forward, creating, dreaming.

Thank you for this year full of meaningful emotions!
Go forth and shine.

With all my love,
Dr. Vasiliki Brinia