From Greece to Austria: How Niki Found Her Place in a Ski Instructor Course in Austria

When you talk to Niki, one thing becomes clear immediately: skiing was never just a “winter hobby” for her. Niki Lymperopoulou, 21, comes from Naoussa in northern Greece—a place not typically associated with alpine racing. Yet it was there, on the edge of a small ski area, that her journey began. And yes, serious skiing does happen in Greece.

From a young age, Niki carved her way through gate after gate, competing in national races until she was 17 and living the rhythm of training. Quit skiing? Unthinkable. Only the path was meant to change—not the passion.

Greece also offers great opportunities for winter sports, as seen here in Parnassos.

From ski racing to a ski instructor course in Austria: a natural progression

Niki was an alpine ski racer from a young age until she was 17, mainly competing in national-level races. Skiing shaped a huge part of her life — and even after racing, she knew one thing: stopping completely wasn’t an option.

For her, becoming an instructor didn’t “come out of the blue.” It felt like the next step: turning what she loves into something professional and guiding others the way her coach once guided her. Teaching, she says, is a challenge she finds deeply rewarding.

Why Austria matters if you want to level up

Niki has skied in Austria before and feels strongly connected to the country. Still, she describes an important reality for many international skiers: the season at home is shorter, and serious practice opportunities can be limited compared to Austria.

If your goal is to progress to a higher level, spending more time abroad — and learning in a structured system — can be the key. It’s about balancing what your home mountains offer with the extra possibilities you find through a Ski Instructor Course in Austria.

How she found Snowsports Academy

Niki first heard about Snowsports Academy through a friend. After looking into it, she felt it offered exactly what she was searching for: professional training, a strong reputation, and a supportive environment. That’s why she chose the Level 2 course from Snowsports Academy.

Before arriving, she wasn’t nervous — just excited. The course felt like the first step in a longer pathway.

Many smiling faces: Over 10 days at Snowsports Academy, Niki and her group grew together like a family.

First impression: organized, welcoming, international

When she arrived, everything felt clear and well organized: the setup, the schedule, the atmosphere. And once she met the group, she immediately sensed the days ahead would be enjoyable. People were open, friendly, and excited — the best starting point for an intense training week.

One of her highlights: the international vibe. Niki met people from many different countries and quickly built real friendships. Even though the course lasted around 10 days, it felt like they’d known each other much longer.

What she loved most (on snow and off snow)

Her favorite part is the combination: being in the mountains every day while developing her skiing knowledge through both practical training and theory. That mix creates a well-rounded understanding — for your own skiing and for teaching others.

She also felt real growth: improving how to structure lessons from start to finish, learning new approaches for different ages and levels, and becoming more adaptable in an international environment.

What’s next?

Niki is already thinking ahead. She knows she will return to Austria for advanced courses and work opportunities. She admires the depth of the Austrian system — and wants to continue building on it.

And for anyone still hesitating, her message is simple: if you truly love the sport and the mountain lifestyle, it’s worth trying — demanding, yes, but 100% worth it.

Niki’s journey is a reminder that ski instructor education is far more than technical practice: it’s a springboard. For new perspectives, personal growth, and a life in the mountains. Listening to Niki, you quickly realize: you don’t have to come from a big ski nation to take big steps. You just need the courage to take them.

In the end, three words stayed with her: “Inspiring. Supportive. Immersive.”

More information about the international course from the Snowsports Academy: https://www.eng.snowsports.at/post/snow-connecting-people-the-international-course-2024