Stanislava Mladenova
FM’s Phi Theta Kappa Impacts Current Students and Alumni Students and Alumni
Stanislava Mladenova grew up in the town of Vidin, Bulgaria. She attended English Language High School for one year and later came to Gloversville where she graduated in 1998. Who would have thought the academic road she chose would have such a strong impact on her life and lead her on the successful journey she now continues.
“I decided to attend FM for many reasons,” says Stani. “I knew that the College could provide a quality education and allow me to transfer into a bachelors program without missing a beat. I was able to afford school with its low-cost tuition along with the scholarships FM awarded me including one from Rotary International.” This was a major turning point in Stani’s life as it was the time she was introduced to FM’s Scholastic Association Club, Phi Theta Kappa (PTK).
“Phi Theta Kappa gives possibilities for growth and learning outside of the classroom, and such knowledge is as equally important as scholastic ability,” says Stani. “I cannot emphasize enough what difference it makes. Becoming involved in your college community leaves an impact that nothing else can replace - an exposure to different environments, and interaction with intelligent people which humble one’s self achievement and expand its boundaries.”
After being a PTK member, then an officer, Stani was selected as part of the All USA Academic Team. “This led me to apply and be selected for an internship at the U.S. Department of State,” Stani tells us. “A vivid memory from that summer as an intern was when the PTK group of interns got invited for a special tour of the White House. We were welcomed by a young woman who showed us around. At the end, she provided time for questions and asked us to share more about Phi Theta Kappa and our own backgrounds. After we went around the room and each told of our leadership positions and academic achievements, she realized what a selective group of students she had just met, and I remember the words she used ‘I am honored to be in the same room with all of you!’ It is at moments like that when one realizes the high standards to which PTK holds its members.”
PTK continues to make strong impacts on FM’s current student members. Recently, Laurie Freeman and Marlene Guiffre, co-advisors of the College’s Chapter, along with Phi Theta Kappans Meghann Warner, president; Rachel Battisti, vice president of service; Luz Valencia, vice president of leadership and ‘05-’06 New York region northern district vice president; and Sarah Menconi, member, attended the 20th Phi Theta Kappa New York Region Convention in Corning, New York. The group was awarded with five-star status in the organization.
“This is the highest level that a chapter can achieve,” states Freeman. “This year, ten chapters out of 59 reached this goal. This is the fifth year that our chapter has succeeded in being in the top ranking of PTK.”
Also, Rachel Battisti was elected to serve as the ‘06-’07 recording secretary for the New York Region. “This will be the eighth year in a row that Alpha Alpha Upsilon has a regional officer among their ranks,” says Freeman. “This is very unusual for any chapter and something FM should be very proud of. Our students routinely have the courage to run for office, give a speech in front of a state convention, and push themselves to their full leadership potential.”
As an FMCC/PTK alumna, Stani agrees. “An essential reflection on the past is the importance of working hard and challenging yourself with things that are difficult to do. They lead you to learn about your strengths and weaknesses and realize where you can add the most value.”
Stani continued her education at Stony Brook University where she graduated with a Bachelors in Political Science and International Affairs (cum laude). She earned a Masters in Public Administration from the Rockefeller College of Public Affairs and Policy in Albany. She now works as a Budget Examiner in the NYS Division of the Budget, the agency which preparers the Governor’s budget. But this is only the beginning for Stani.
“Since I am only at the start of my career, my curiosity to do and experience everything remains restless,” Stani tells us. “However, my interests are in program development. I have also kept part of me in Europe and would hope that some day I can return to work and live there for some time.”
Looking back at beginning her continued education at FM, Stani says it’s hard for her to point out only one specific factor that she liked most. “I must say that the foundation of everything that makes the FM experience is the excellence of the faculty and their tremendous accessibility,” says Stani. “I was also very active with the College’s Student Government Association (SGA) and the Student Activities Board (SAB). At the time, Mr. Bill Pierce was the SGA Advisor and was a faculty member to whom I forever remain indebted for his outlook, wisdom, and patience as a teacher and friend. All involved with SGA, SAB, and PTK will always hold a special place in my heart.”
