In the benches of Civil Engineering sits a student different from others: The Anestis Lituum, Nearly 80, from the Lime of Giannitsa, in Pella, he proves daily that age is never an obstacle to learning – on the contrary, it can become a source of inspiration and power.
With a successful course as contractor and a technical company owner, the K. He did not follow the conventional journey to higher education, but he never gave up his dream of a degree.
A serious health problem, which faced him with the most difficult situation of his life – his doctors gave him only 60% chance of living – the reason for a new beginning was. As he says, speaking to RES-EIA, after intubation and 26 days in an artificial coma, when he came back, he decided to “catch the thread from where he had left it”-from the Gymnasium. “I set the goal again to finish school,” he says. He studied in the evening high school and graduated with 19.4, earning a place at the university. “It was my dream to learn the theory of everything I did in practice. I wanted to marry them. And that’s what I did, ” He stresses.
His desire to attend the Department of Civil Engineering was not accidental. One of his associates, a civil engineer, had impressed him with his knowledge and technical approach to the projects: “I was captivated by the way he was talking about bridges, metal constructions. He told me, “When you get the opportunity, go to know them.” And when she was given, she didn’t let her go.
Today, in his 80s, the Rise It is almost at the end of his studies. “A year left,” he says with a smile. His favorite lessons, of course, concrete and metal structures – “those related to my work”. In fact, in the metal constructions “I always take ten”, he stresses proudly. And if all goes well, he dreams of a master’s degree: “I told my wife and I mean it. I have so much love for scientists. I love them! “
His return to the desks was not without difficulty. Technology, as it admits, is an obstacle: “I see the kids how they move with mobile and computer … I hit two keys together.” But he insists. With stubbornness, faith and support of his family – although his wife is difficult to keep alone – he continues tirelessly. “Whatever I start, I finish it. I find it grunt to give up things. “
And his classmates? “At first they were skeptical. But now we are friends – with all the meaning of the word. They are great children, and teachers too. They have fully assimilated me with the 18 -year -olds. There is no distinction-and I do not want to exist, “Mr Lituses told RES-EIA.
The love of students and teachers confirms the Claire Petroutsatou, Associate Professor at the Department of Civil Engineering AUTH. “He is (Mr. Litus) a brilliant example of man, an optimistic man who believes in life. He is also a brilliant student of mine. Students have embraced him because they actually see this optimistic message that gives them: that you should never put it down and follow your dreams at whatever age you are – lifelong learning. It is a very important message to everyone and especially to young children, ”he explains.
THE K. It no longer has the pressure of occupational rehabilitation – the labor market capital has been closed for him. His motivation is clean: the love for knowledge. “Knowledge is power. It takes you to another level. That’s why I say to my grandparents: to leave the coffee shop and catch the books. “
His message to young children who are now starting their journey at the university is clear: “They have courage, faith, will and stubbornness. Not to look back – just ahead. Learning is not age. And the university is a second youth. “
THE Rise It’s not just an 80 -year -old student. It is the living proof that the will can beat everything – even time. A man who decided to rebuild his life, not with the trowel, but with the books. And to teach, silently but essentially, what persistence, dignity and love for knowledge mean.