Meet Eleanna Giannoula ’28 Giannoula, an international student from Greece, said W&L's genuine community drew her in.

Eleanna Giannoula ’28
Majors: Business administration and sociology and anthropology
Hometown: Porto Koufo, Greece

Why did you choose to come to W&L? 

I first discovered W&L through an online college visit hosted at my high school. As an international student exploring options in the U.S., choosing a university can feel uncertain and overwhelming, but W&L was the complete opposite for me. Despite the distance, the sense of community felt genuine. Having an older sibling here (Harry Giannoulas ’26) also gave me an honest insight into student life, and the more I learned, the more confident I felt that it was the perfect place for me.

Have you discovered a course or topic that you didn’t expect to study when you first came to W&L? 

Absolutely! The first class I ever attended at W&L was Sociology 102 with Professor Pérez, and I did not really know what to expect. By the end of the semester, it had become my favorite class, and it inspired me to take similar courses, which led to it being my second major. Therefore, not only did I not expect to take a class in sociology, but I definitely did not think that it would be one of my fields of study.

Where is your “home” on campus?

My “home” on campus would be my sorority. The girls I call my sisters are always there for me and have supported me through so many challenges. They never fail to put a smile on my face. They are the people I can always count on, and they make every ordinary moment memorable and special!

Who is your mentor on campus, and how have they helped you develop as a student? 

My mentor on campus would be Assistant Dean of Student Leadership Leah Beard. She has become someone I can go to for honest guidance, encouragement and perspective. She has helped me navigate both academic decisions and more personal moments, such as adjusting to a life far from home. I am really grateful for her and to have someone who believes in me and supports me like she does.

What was your favorite class and why? 

One of my favorite classes I have taken was called Funny Women. I took it during my freshman year Spring Term, and it was the perfect class for Spring Term. I learned so much about humor and comedy and what part women have played for its development. We also had the opportunity to craft our own jokes in the class (which is harder than it sounds), and I felt like I was learning so much but still having the best time.

What are your hobbies/interests, and how has W&L helped you develop and pursue them?

I love traveling, exploring nature and discovering new cultures, especially through language and food. I also love getting to know new people, because I am a firm believer in the fact that I can learn so much by just talking to someone about their experiences.

I try to live life to the fullest, and W&L allows me to do exactly that. I can learn more about subjects I am passionate about but also discover so many new things. The campus is placed perfectly on the map for people who love to go on hikes and adventures and just enjoy nature. More than that, while working at the Office of Alumni Engagement, I have had the opportunity to meet so many interesting and accomplished alumni who inspire me to grow and be my best self every day.

What has been your greatest accomplishment since arriving at W&L? 

Although W&L has helped me develop both academically and professionally, I believe that my greatest accomplishment here is the fact that I have grown as an individual in so many aspects. Looking back at the version of myself walking around during O-week, I can see how much I have changed. I am more independent, confident and more sure of who I am. At the end of the day, W&L has shaped me into the person I am proud to have become.

How have your experiences at W&L prepared you for post-graduate success? 

My experiences at W&L have provided me with the academic foundation and mindset I will need in my post-graduate years. The challenging academics have taught me how to think critically and pushed me to grow intellectually. Beyond the classroom, the relationships I have built with faculty and my peers have shown me how meaningful connection truly is and how it can completely change one’s college experience. Because of that, I feel more prepared and excited for what comes next!

Who or what inspires you?

The people who inspire me the most are my friends and family. My family has supported me throughout my whole life and has shown me what unconditional love, endless support and dedication look like. At the same time, I have met some of the most driven and motivated people here who inspire me with their determination and ambition. Being surrounded by people who strive to achieve their goals while also knowing what it means to be a true friend encourages me to keep growing and becoming the best version of myself.