Alumnus Profiled: Dr. Dimitrios Varvoglis
Graduated: Pierce 2015
Lives in: USA
Current Role: Colorectal Surgery Research Fellow
Dr. Dimitrios Varvoglis is a medical professional with a Medical Degree from the University of Thessaly, graduating in July 2022. Achieving a remarkable score in the Panhellenic National University Entry Exams, Dr. Varvoglis has consistently excelled in academic endeavors, including a High School Diploma from Pierce-The American College of Greece.
Complementing academic achievements, Dr. Varvoglis honed practical skills through Acting Internships at the University of North Carolina (UNC) Department of Lower Gastrointestinal (GI) Surgery and the Department of Upper GI Surgery. These internships, marked by active participation in various surgeries and earning “Honors” for overall performance, showcased Dr. Varvoglis’s clinical proficiency.
Serving as a Colorectal Surgery Research Fellow at UNC since August 2022, Dr. Varvoglis has been instrumental in groundbreaking research projects. Notably, Dr. Varvoglis contributed significantly to the research initiative titled “A Church-based Colorectal Cancer Educational Intervention in the Latino Community Assessing Feasibility of Recruitment, Retention, and Identification of Barriers to Health Care and Clinical Trial Enrollment.” This project underscores Dr. Varvoglis’s commitment to community engagement and improving healthcare access.
Moreover, Dr. Varvoglis has contributed significantly to the field through multiple published articles covering diverse topics within surgery and medicine. This body of work showcases Dr. Varvoglis’s proficiency in research methodologies and dedication to contributing valuable insights to the medical community.
Beyond research, Dr. Varvoglis actively engages in medical community service, volunteering at UNC Hospitals, contributing to health fairs, and holding memberships in esteemed medical societies such as the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) and the American College of Surgeons (ACS).
Looking ahead, Dr. Varvoglis harbors ambitious aspirations in the medical field. With a keen interest in surgical disciplines, Dr. Varvoglis envisions matching into a prestigious general surgery residency program, where a comprehensive training environment will enable the acquisition of diverse surgical skills and expertise. Fueled by a passion for advancing medical knowledge and patient care, Dr. Varvoglis aspires to embark on a career as a surgeon-scientist. This trajectory involves seamlessly integrating clinical practice with research endeavors, contributing to the ongoing evolution of medical understanding and the development of innovative solutions. With a steadfast commitment to both patient well-being and the advancement of medical science, Dr. Varvoglis looks forward to making a lasting impact on the field of surgery and contributing to the betterment of healthcare outcomes.
Q&A
Q: What are three enduring values Pierce has taught you?
Pierce has instilled in me three enduring values that profoundly influence my personal and professional life. Foremost, the school’s powerful motto, “To serve, but not to be served” has been a guiding light, shaping my decisions to actively engage in diverse community service endeavors. This principle has not only inspired selflessness but has also fueled my commitment to contributing to the well-being of others, demonstrating the tangible impact of service in both my academic and community pursuits.
Secondly, Pierce taught me the value of hard work. The rigorous academic environment and high expectations cultivated a strong work ethic within me. This commitment to diligence has become a cornerstone of my approach to challenges and has been pivotal in my academic and professional journey.
Lastly, the emphasis on teamwork at Pierce has been instrumental in shaping my collaborative mindset. Understanding the collective strength that comes from working harmoniously with others, I have carried this value into my research projects and medical endeavors. The recognition of the importance of teamwork has not only enhanced my interpersonal skills but has also contributed to my ability to achieve shared goals efficiently.
In essence, Pierce has imparted to me the enduring values of service, hard work, and teamwork, which continue to guide my actions and decisions in both my personal and professional life.
Q: Describe Pierce in three words.
Family, Fun, Excellence
Q: Which is your fondest memory from your time at Pierce?
Apologies for deviating from the request for a single memory; however, encapsulating the impact of my time at Pierce with just one profound experience proves challenging. Two particular memories stand out vividly, both originating from captivating moments in my English classes.
One of my fondest memories from Pierce High School roots itself in an English class where we delved into Steve Jobs’ profound commencement speech at Stanford University in 2005. Jobs’ articulation of having faith and believing that things will work out, even in the face of uncertainty, left a lasting impression. His conviction in the interconnectedness of life events, often visible only in hindsight, resonated deeply and became a source of inspiration. Encouraging the embrace of the unknown, following one’s passion, and trusting the journey, Jobs’ message fostered in me a sense of optimism and resilience.
In another memorable English class, we explored Robert Frost’s timeless poem, “The Road Not Taken.” This poetic masterpiece, with its evocative exploration of life’s choices and the roads less traveled, struck a chord. The profound reflection on decision-making and the exploration of divergent paths significantly influenced my contemplation of choices and their impact on personal development. The wisdom embedded in Frost’s verses has since served as a guiding beacon, encouraging me to approach life’s crossroads with thoughtful consideration and resilience.
Both of these experiences at Pierce enriched my literary and intellectual understanding, becoming integral in shaping my values, aspirations, and approach to life’s journey.
Q: What do you miss most from your days at Pierce?
What I miss most from my days at Pierce is the sense of family and support that permeated the environment. The professors played a pivotal role in my development, shaping me into the person I am today. Whenever I reflect on Pierce, a nostalgic feeling washes over me, reminding me of a place I truly love.
Q: If you could go back in time, is there anything that you would do differently?
If given the chance to go back in time, I wouldn’t wish to change much. My time at Pierce was cherished, and I seized every opportunity available. The choices I made during those years have played a pivotal role in shaping my current path, and I am genuinely content with the person I have become.
Q: Where was your favorite spot on campus?
My favorite spot in school was the soccer field. I spent a lot of time there with my teammates, and our high school team was like a family for six years. I was even honored to be one of the team captains.
We had memorable moments on the soccer field, from practicing hard before important matches to the exciting feelings before our first-ever ASIS soccer match final in 2012. Our team had its highs and lows, reaching the top and facing tough times. But through it all, we stuck together and kept going. The soccer field wasn’t just a place for playing; it was where we learned about teamwork, staying determined, and supporting each other.
Q: Who was your favorite teacher and why?
Choosing just one favorite teacher from my time at Pierce is tough because all my teachers were great. But if I had to pick, Mr. Kourtesakis, our chemistry teacher, stands out. His classes were always well-organized, and I still remember his clear handwriting. I had him throughout high school, and he made learning chemistry fun with his enthusiasm for the subject. His way of teaching left a lasting impression on me, and I’ll always appreciate the fun and engaging lessons he provided.
Q: After graduation, have you maintained a relationship with your school and classmates?
Yes, I’ve maintained strong connections with my high school even after graduation. Despite being in different countries, I’ve kept in touch with many classmates, and some of my closest friends are from my high school years. The shared experiences and values we developed during that time have played a crucial role in sustaining these enduring bonds.
Q: Looking back, how did your time at Pierce help you become the person you are today?
Pierce High School’s commitment to hard work instilled in me a relentless work ethic, shaping my pursuit of excellence. Emphasizing teamwork, the school fostered collaborative environments, teaching the significance of collective achievement. This ethos resonates in my medical career, where interdisciplinary collaboration is vital.
The school’s motto, “to serve but not to be served,” fueled my commitment to community service, aligning with a belief in contributing to others’ welfare. Beyond academics, participation in the debate team and Harvard Model Congress Europe honed my teamwork skills and communication abilities. These skills are now indispensable in presenting research findings and navigating complex healthcare landscapes.
In essence, Pierce’s emphasis on hard work, teamwork, and service continues to guide my character and professional journey, influencing my approach to challenges and reinforcing the importance of collective effort and compassionate service in both personal and professional realms.
Q: What advice would you give a new Pierce student?
My advice to a new Pierce student is to cherish every moment and embrace the plethora of extracurricular activities our school offers. Engage in these unique opportunities to explore your interests, fostering personal and intellectual growth. Participation in diverse activities not only shapes your character but also contributes to becoming a well-rounded individual. Enjoy the journey, make the most of the rich offerings, and seize every chance to discover and develop your true passions.
Q: Where do you get your inspiration from?
My family, consisting of my parents and brother, has been an enduring wellspring of inspiration throughout my life. Witnessing their unwavering support, especially during my formative years, has instilled in me the values of resilience and hard work. Their sacrifices and commitment to my well-being have shaped my character and fueled my determination to overcome challenges. The familial bonds we share serve as a constant reminder of the profound impact that love, dedication, and mutual support can have on shaping an individual’s journey. In both ordinary moments and significant milestones, my family’s example continues to guide and inspire me to strive for excellence and contribute positively to the world around me.
Q: What is your motto in life?
My life motto is inspired by the lyrics of “You’ll Never Walk Alone,” particularly the line “At the end of the storm, there’s a golden sky.” This reminds me to persevere through challenges, knowing that brighter days lie ahead. This motto encapsulates the essence of resilience and optimism that guides my journey. Life, much like a storm, can be filled with challenges and uncertainties. However, the imagery of a golden sky at the end serves as a powerful reminder that adversity is temporary, and beyond the difficulties, there awaits a brighter and more promising future. It instills in me the determination to face challenges head-on, knowing that every struggle is a passing phase leading to eventual triumph. The lyrics inspire me to maintain hope, push through hardships, and embrace the belief that, no matter how tough the present may be, a golden horizon awaits on the other side.
ACG Alumni: We Stay Connected!
