Hobbies & Interests

Beekeeping

Stony Brook University

2022 - Today

I founded the Beekeepers Club at Stony Brook University to foster a community dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of beekeeping and environmental sustainability. As the president, I organize various activities, including free introductory classes on beekeeping, where students learn essential skills from a Cornell-certified master beekeeper. The club also collaborates with the Long Island Beekeepers Club, focusing on education and best practices in bee-friendly planting and hive maintenance.

On a personal level, I’m a hobby beekeeper with two hives in my backyard, where I practice what I teach. Through this hands-on experience, I continue to expand my knowledge and share insights with the beekeeping community at large. Combining my passion for bees with community service, we recently organized a fundraiser, with the proceeds going to St. Basil’s Orphanage in upstate New York. This initiative reflects my belief in the power of environmental stewardship to make a positive impact on both nature and society.

Piano

New York

2012 - 2022

Piano Experience

My musical journey began at the Spyros Mazis Conservatory in Greece, where I studied classical music, sight-reading, and solfege from 2008 to 2011. During this time, I performed solo piano minuets at various school and conservatory events. After moving to the United States, I continued my musical education with private lessons, studying classical piano with Mrs. Areti Giovannou and boogie-woogie with Mr. Arthur Migliazza.

From 2011 to 2018, I played piano for school events at the William Spyropoulos School, supporting the choir. A notable performance was playing Clementi Sonatine Op. 36 no. 6 for Archbishop Demetrios at the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral in New York City in 2015.

In high school, I expanded my musical horizons by joining the jazz band and string orchestra playing 1st violin at St. Francis Preparatory School, performing in numerous school events since 2018. In 2021, I showcased my talent online at the World Championship Old-Time Piano “Junior Showcase”. I also picked up guitar and performed at various shows.

My dedication to music has been recognized with a Level 5 in NYSSMA in June 2019 for playing the piano. I enjoy adapting to different genres, from classical to boogie-woogie, swing, and rock, as it provides a more well-rounded musical education and allows for more opportunities to perform. My ability to solo and improvise, coupled with my stamina for playing demanding pieces, has allowed me to perform confidently and passionately in various settings, helping me to make the most out of this experience. Music is an integral part of my life, and it is one that I will continue to explore for as long as possible.