Single father of five Stavros Giannoulatos, who just graduated in English Literature and Creative Writing with first class honours, talks us through his past three years at London Met.
Date: 17 August 2021
As a single father to five children, one of whom has a severe disability, Stavros Giannoulatos, who is dyslexic, dyspraxic and has ADHD, initially lacked the confidence in his ability to perform well on his course, English Literature and Creative Writing BA.
However, Stavros has now “achieved something remarkable”: graduating from London Met with first class honours and having a piece of writing published in the 2020 Anthology, published by the School of Art, Architecture and Design.
“It proved to me that if you set your mind to achieving something,” he said. “If you work hard, have passion for what you are studying, and have excellent support from faculty, you can achieve the seemingly impossible.”
Reflecting on the best aspects of studying at London Met, Stavros said that “seeing how much my own writing has developed during the course” was one the best things.
He continued with: “The synergy I experienced with my lecturers, both in the classroom and trips to plays, talks, exhibitions, galleries and museums, has enriched me, giving me intellectual, educational and personal role models to learn from. My experience on the course has been an enriching one, preparing me professionally as a teacher of English and Drama, and as a writer.”
Like students the country over, Stavros had to contend with studying during the pandemic: “Completing my studies during lockdown at first seemed daunting. However, my tutors managed an incredible feat by ensuring that the transition to online learning would be as least disruptive as possible.
“By making use of interactive online technology, we could make notes, post feedback, go into break out groups and actively take part in live seminars and workshops. We were supported by the faculty throughout lockdown; as a class and in personal one-to-one sessions with our tutors.”
As Stavros heads out into the world of work, his advice to the next cohort of students is to “really enjoy your time at London Met. The three years on your undergraduate course will fly by, so make use of all the resources and support that is offered.
“You will make great friendships, gain so much knowledge and develop academically, personally and intellectually. Always remember how much of a privilege it actually is for us to be able to study at a university and learn from highly trained and learned tutors.”
