From Greece to the U.S.: Chasing Dreams, Conquering Challenges

Moving to the United States right after finishing my studies in Greece was one of the biggest and boldest decisions of my life. It was not just about changing locations; it was about stepping into an entirely new world, both personally and professionally. I knew it would not be easy, but I was determined to build a career and make a name for myself. The path we plan is not always the one we take—but sometimes, the unexpected turns lead to the greatest destinations. Banking was not my first choice, but it has become my most rewarding one. The reason is that it allows me to combine my interests—financial analysis, market, and industry research, while collaborating with peers and connecting with fascinating individuals.

Ultimately, my work supports U.S businesses, the backbone of the U.S. economy. In this way, I feel I am making a meaningful contribution to my community. The rich history of banking, which traces its origins to ancient civilizations like Mesopotamia, where temples first acted as banks, storing valuables and lending grain to farmers, reminds me that banking has been essential to society for over 4,000 years.

Breaking into the U.S. banking industry came with its fair share of challenges. While my bachelor’s degree in accounting and finance gave me a strong foundation – thank you, American College of Greece -, I had to quickly adapt to a different financial system, business culture, and professional environment. I spent countless hours learning, networking, and proving myself in an industry that rewards expertise and perseverance.
Fast forward ten years, and my journey in commercial banking has shaped me into the professional I am today. I have cultivated in-depth knowledge in financial analysis, credit structuring, and risk assessment, along with building meaningful relationships, all of which paved the way for my current role as Vice President & Senior Credit Officer. Every deal I work on presents unique challenges, pushing me to think strategically and structure solutions that balance opportunity with risk. It is fast-paced, complex, and exactly the kind of work that drives me.

Of course, establishing myself in a foreign country was not just about professional growth. It also meant building a life from scratch, cultivating genuine relationships, adjusting to a new culture, and creating a sense of home in an unfamiliar place. Every step required resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to embrace change.

As my career progressed, I realized that if I wanted to reach the next level, I needed to expand my knowledge and skills. That led me to pursue an Online MBA at ALBA Graduate Business School. Juggling a demanding job with an MBA program is not easy, but the experience has been incredibly rewarding. I’ve gained fresh perspectives, sharpened my decision-making skills, and applied new insights directly to my work.
Balancing work, school, and personal life is no small feat, and I have had to be intentional about managing my time and energy – the Pomodoro Technique has proven to be highly effective. Task prioritization is key, as is knowing when to take a step back and recharge. It is a constant balancing act, but one that has taught me valuable lessons about efficiency and self-discipline.

As a woman in banking, I have also had to navigate the realities of working in an industry historically dominated by men. Establishing credibility has meant consistently demonstrating expertise, delivering results, and finding the right balance between confidence and approachability. I have also been fortunate to have strong mentors who have supported my growth. Fortunately, the industry has made great strides, and progress continues to shape the future.

For women looking to advance in banking, my advice is simple: build your hard (technical) skills and soft (professional) skills, seek out mentors, and be proactive in pursuing opportunities. An MBA can be a powerful tool for accelerating career growth, not just for the knowledge it provides but for the network and opportunities it can unlock. Throughout every stage of my career, I have embraced a phrase from Herb Greenberg, founder of Caliper: “Potential matters more than experience.”

Looking back, I am incredibly proud of how far I have come—from Greece to the U.S., from an aspiring novice to a senior banking professional. Every challenge has shaped me, every setback has taught me something valuable, and every step forward has reinforced my belief in taking bold chances.
Looking ahead, I hope to contribute to greater representation of women in the banking industry. The industry is evolving rapidly, and I want to continue to be part of that change—mentoring, advocating, and leading by example. If there is one lesson my journey has taught me, it is that calculated risks and relentless determination lead to the most meaningful growth.