The Making of an Outstanding Scholar
George's parents migrated from Karpathos, Greece, to Virginia Beach, Virginia, in search of more stable economic conditions. As a child, George attended school, both in the United States and Greece, ultimately graduating from Frank W. Cox High School in Virginia Beach.
George was admitted to the National Technical University of Athens (in Greece) for electrical and computer engineering. However, the financial turmoil in Greece also affected the education system in the country and sent George back to the US to continue his academic career.
Why ODU?
After applying to and visiting various schools around Virginia, George found ODU to be the most organic campus. He appreciated the fact that, while ODU is integrated in the greater community, the school did not define the city or vice versa. This reason, along with its commuter-friendly location, brought him to ODU.
Why Engineering?
Engineering was a natural fit for a student who is a self-proclaimed math and science enthusiast. In choosing electrical engineering as his major, George wanted to take advantage of the discipline's broad scope. Concurrently, it became apparent to George that math is vital in the engineering field. So much so that George chose to pursue a math degree in parallel with his engineering degree.
What's My Motivation?
Raised by parents holding a deep appreciation for education, George saw his mother and father make sacrifices to ensure that their sons received proper education. George's efforts, in no small part, are inspired by his parents' actions. However, the main driving forces behind his strides in academia are his curiosity and restlessness about the unknown - the realization that there is much to explore.
Accomplished Much?
With a deep respect for math, he sought to overcome the intimidation that accompanies higher mathematics. Therefore, George double majored, earning a math degree alongside his degree in engineering.
In George's Own Words
I walked into Dr. Krusienski's office as a freshman with no knowledge of programming or research. He gave me the opportunity to earn a place in the lab and prove that I was truly interested in research. Once a member of his lab he was always available for help and discussion. Dr. Krusienski provided good research ideas, but also challenged me to think of my own and justify my work. From him I have learned begin critical of your results and taking pride in your work will produce quality research.
The Fun Side
Like any of his undergraduate counterparts during semester breaks, one could oftentimes find George lying in front of the TV, binge-watching some of the shows he missed during the semester, burger in hand.
Others of his interests include video games, programming challenges and music - he is a big fan of music. But, he doesn't simply listen to music, he makes music, too. Alongside his brother, a drummer, George plays the guitar. Together, they usually jam as a way to relax.
Forward-Thinking
There's a simple answer to this question: employment...of some sort. When George isn't unwinding from the past semester, he is in the process of considering various job offers as a software engineer.