As part of the Erasmus+ staff training mobility programme, I stayed at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki from 29 June to 3 July 2026. During my visit, I participated in a series of meetings and activities aimed at establishing and strengthening academic cooperation. My colleagues at Aristotle University were exceptionally welcoming, friendly, and open to collaboration. Our discussions went beyond a general exchange of ideas and included concrete opportunities for collaboration through joint research and publications, guest lectures, conferences, seminars, and other activities intended for students and academic staff.
During my stay, I had the opportunity to hold in-depth discussions with Professor Georgios Panos, Professor of Finance in the Division of Business Administration at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki and Affiliate Professor of Finance at the University of Glasgow, Professor Stephanos Papadamou, Professor of Macroeconomic Monetary Theory and Economics of Banking in the Department of Economics, Assistant Professor Xakousti Chrysanthopoulou, Department of Economics and Dr Ioanna Pavlidou, Postdoctoral Researcher in the Department of Economics, whose research interests include innovation and entrepreneurship. I also met two postdoctoral researchers, Dr Aristea Vidra and Dr Stamatia Ftergioti, who conduct their research under the supervision of Professor Georgios Panos.
I would like to express my sincere gratitude to my host, Professor Georgios Panos. His hospitality, openness, and selfless dedication throughout my stay made this experience particularly valuable. The time he devoted to our discussions, introducing me to his colleagues, and presenting the academic life of Aristotle University enabled me to gain a genuine understanding of both the institution and the people who shape it.
My stay in Thessaloniki was rewarding beyond the academic component of the mobility. Ancient, Roman, Byzantine, and modern heritage intertwine throughout Thessaloniki, giving the city a unique character and remarkable depth. The combination of a vibrant contemporary city and its long and complex history left a lasting impression on me.
I believe that this mobility fully achieved its objectives. In addition to the exchange of knowledge and experience, it enabled me to establish valuable professional contacts and created opportunities for future research, teaching, and institutional cooperation. Finally, I hope that this is only the first of many future encounters with Aristotle University and the city of Thessaloniki.
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