Exploring the Experiences of ACT Students: A Journey Through Personal Narratives and Academic Growth
The dynamic sphere of ACT student life is a vibrant "patchwork" of unique experiences, perspectives, and achievements, woven together through personal journeys. We had the joy of interviewing three Computer Science undergraduates, diving into their backgrounds and aspirations to provide an insightful glimpse into the diverse trajectories of the college’s students.
This compilation of student testimonials is our attempt to present the multifaceted aspects of life at ACT from their perspective. Their narratives not only echo the academic opportunities and challenges that ACT presents but also encapsulate the personal development, cultural interaction, and community involvement that characterize their collective journey.
Nikola Jocic embarked on his academic journey at the American College of Thessaloniki (ACT) seeking the full American college experience.
“When I graduated high school in the U.S, I sought the full American college experience, but I was away from home for quite some while. That's when I found ACT– a perfect middle ground where I could be close to home while immersing myself in the American education system”.
As a leader of the Google Student Development Club on campus, Nikola actively contributes by organizing events, workshops, and supporting fellow students in the field through engaging lectures and projects, all initiated by Google.
Upon arriving in Thessaloniki, Nikola discovered a “sense of pleasantness” that exceeded his expectations. The open-minded and friendly atmosphere of the city, coupled with the unique blend of proximity and cultural immersion, made his academic journey truly enjoyable. As he approaches his senior year, Nikola reflects on the positive experiences that have shaped his time at ACT.
One of the aspects that sets ACT apart, for Nikola, is its campus, which he describes as a “remote paradise”. “As students, we are privileged to have the opportunity to escape the city almost everyday”.
Similarly to Nikola, and after initially pursuing his education in Russia, Daniil Saltykov found himself motivated by a desire for a more computer science-focused education, which led him to study at ACT. This move aligned with his long standing plan of studying abroad since high school.
For Daniil, ACT did not only provide a variety of courses related to his major, but also offered what he describes as “soft skills classes that enhance my communicative and team building skills and help me to become a versatile person with developed critical thinking”.
What also stood out for Daniil at ACT was the opportunity to build personal connections with professors and engage in meaningful interactions. “For me, the ability to reach out with questions and actively participate in discussions has created a more pleasant and interactive educational environment. Another aspect I find important at ACT is that you get a hands-on education. The emphasis on practical learning means that I gain valuable knowledge through real-world experiences. Also, the fact that there are comparatively small student groups in the class makes it easier to build an individual approach for every student which significantly improves the quality of education process as well as the overall enjoyment from studies”.
Daniil highlighted the significance of being able to pursue a minor degree concurrently with one’s primary studies, as he believes this option has not only expanded the scope of opportunities available to him but has also enriched his educational journey, allowing him to complement his area of study with a secondary focus. “The institution has empowered us to tailor our four-year education to align more closely with our individual interests, career aspirations, and academic strengths”.
Daniil’s favorite spot on campus is the Bissell Library, which he believes “exudes an American vibe” and serves as a hub of knowledge and collaboration.
For Daniil, the strong sense of community at ACT, where everyone, including professors, is approachable and friendly, has made his learning experience both interactive and enjoyable.
Our final interviewee, Daniel Stefani took the opportunity to study at ACT in a spontaneous and multidirectional move. Drawn by his love for sciences and physical activity, Daniel saw ACT as the perfect blend to develop both his social and academic sides.
Currently working as a developer at an Italian company, Daniel has successfully found a balance between work and school. He emphasizes the importance of effective time management, maintaining good mental well-being, proper nutrition, and engaging in physical activities. “In the fast-paced world of computer science, having an outlet for energy is crucial to navigate the constant flow of information”.
Reflecting on his academic journey at ACT, one of the most significant improvements Daniel has observed have been in the areas of “writing and speaking”. As he mentions; “being a senior finishing up my degree, I've never felt more confident in my approach when it comes to interacting with others in the professional world through all kinds of mediums, and my experience in ACT has been a factor that contributed to this positively”. He mentions that he arrived at ACT with a “professionally-oriented mindset”, eager to broaden his horizons in the professional realm, which he did not only achieve by acquiring his first job, but also through the “unexpected possibilities” that unfolded during his studies at ACT.
“Beyond the academic sphere, my experience at ACT has made me a more fulfilled individual in nearly every aspect - not to mention the countless social and networking opportunities that allowed me to not only be a better student, but also a better person. I am very thankful for being able to study at ACT with a scholarship, as without it my stay at ACT wouldn’t have been possible and I am eternally grateful for being a grant recipient”.
“I appreciate the relaxed atmosphere at ACT, which resonates with the culture I am familiar with in Albania. The multicultural environment allows me to meet people from different backgrounds, providing diverse perspectives that enrich my overall experience.”
Engagement is a key aspect of Daniel’s ACT experience. He actively participates in various events and is a member of the Google Student Developer Club but also values the chance to take trips and explore different activities, such as a class on sea sailing; “this particular class provides a refreshing break, allowing me to feel close to nature”.
