by Evelyn Pittas

by Evelyn Pittas, Academy Vice Principal

As you are about to embark on the next stage of your life, one that I hope will be exciting and gratifying for you, it brings me great pleasure to speak to you, our graduating class of 2022.

As you enter a world that is always evolving, but also one that is a bit frightening, where nothing is truly secure, I sincerely hope you attempt to seize the lives that are rightfully yours. Your independence, willpower, and perseverance will all be required for this. This implies that you will surely experience disappointments and encounter moments when life may feel unjust. Adventure, thrill, wisdom, and mystery are all promised by these experiences. These are the kinds of opportunities that may confound people of all ages, but you may bewilder yourself the most because you may travel to places you have never been before.

Teenagers today have the freedom to live casually, happily, and without concern about the future. Whereas young adults must make decisions that could alter their course in life. Adolescents must balance ambition with passivity, cause and effect, and action with reaction. Young adulthood entails being free to make decisions, being morally and legally autonomous, and being ethically and consciously responsible. Your experiences and education during the first 18 years of your lives have shaped your character, and it is this character that is now gradually paving the route into maturity. Never lose sight of the fact that the set of values you have worked so hard to create is a significant component of this character. Open-mindedness, empathy, honesty, ethos, diligence, and solidarity should not just be “tags,” but rather essential truths and guiding principles that serve as a reminder of your moral code as you extend your wings and soar into the future. After graduating from ACS, Athens, you must map a new course and create your own vision. I sincerely hope you never give in to others’ attempts to dissuade you from pursuing the goals that you truly desire in life. I sincerely hope you will not be so adamant in your demands for rights that you fail to fulfill your commitments. I hope you will keep in mind that what you say and do has consequences. I hope you have big goals! Aiming high and falling short are both acceptable outcomes; but, failing because you never tried is a waste of time. And always remember, in order to avoid regrets, dare to dream.

I hope you can laugh more. Find new challenges to overcome, uncharted lands to go to, and fresh faces to meet. I have faith that when you look back on your life, you will be proud of the kindness you showed others, and the softness you noticed in their demeanor. Keep others in mind when you venture out into the world. You need to have some place in your heart where you can remember that your country, your family, and your friends depend on you. Keep ACS, Athens close to your heart. Maintain a growth mindset and treat others and yourself with respect! Keep in mind that in addition to being an individual, you are also a responsible citizen who needs to stay informed of what is happening in the world; be critical of the evidence, and always look for the truth.

Keep your integrity complete while you confront and handle the inevitable changes. Keep your work ethic, morals, intellectual curiosity, and, most importantly, your humility intact. I am sure that when you look back on your life, you will realize that it was one filled with joy! Best of wishes to you all!