Petros Pallas

As Greek is one of the hardest languages to learn, I really enjoy explaining the structure of it—its grammar, roots, and etymology. It’s fascinating, and students often find it surprising how many English words have Greek origins.

I started teaching Greek 5 years ago, and it is becoming more and more interesting ever since.

Most learners are either heritage speakers who want to reconnect with their culture or people who have a strong interest in history, philosophy, or travel. Love, family, and curiosity are also common motivations.

Greek may seem difficult at first—especially because of the alphabet and grammar—but once students get over that initial hurdle, they often find it very rewarding. It has a consistent pronunciation system, and the grammar, while rich, follows clear rules.

There's a great mix of interest. Some are passionate about classical Greek civilization—philosophy, architecture, and mythology—while others want to understand the modern Greek way of life. It’s rewarding to see students realize that Greece is not just about the past but has a vibrant and evolving culture today.

One of the hardest parts of being a Greek teacher is helping students stay motivated when they face the initial difficulties of the language. Greek has a different alphabet, complex grammar, and many unfamiliar concepts, so some learners feel overwhelmed at first. My challenge is to break things down in a clear, encouraging way and remind them that progress always comes with consistency and patience.

A good Greek student is someone who is curious, consistent, and open to challenges. Greek isn’t the easiest language to learn, so perseverance is key. But the best students are those who engage with the language beyond the textbook—listening to Greek music, watching videos, or asking questions about culture and history. It’s not just about memorizing grammar rules; it’s about developing a genuine interest in the language and the world behind it.

Many learners find the grammar and the verb system to be the hardest parts—especially things like cases and the different verb tenses. But I always remind my students that Greek has a logical structure, and once they get used to it, it starts to make a lot more sense.

Struggling means you're trying, which is already a success. Keep going, ask questions, practice often, and don’t expect perfection. Fluency is built step by step.

Greek isn’t an easy language, and it doesn’t happen overnight. But with regular practice, even 15–30 minutes a day, you’ll be surprised at how much you can understand within a few months.