Fanta Diop’s love of poetry began in middle school when she joined a poetry club. She continued writing in high school where she started a new poetry club, and she is now working on launching one at St. Thomas Aquinas College.
“It is a way for me to creatively express my thoughts and feelings,” Fanta says. “I like writing about nature, emotions, and social issues, but the subject I find myself writing most about is love and relationships.”
In addition to writing poetry, Fanta has many interests. She enjoys developing social media content, cooking, baking, singing, and playing soccer. A first-generation college student who speaks four languages, Fanta was born in Manhattan and spent most of her life there, but also lived in Mali for five years.
At STAC, she is studying finance with plans to work in financial advising or wealth management. “I like problem-solving, helping others, giving advice and I am really good with money,” she says. “I would love to help people manage their own.”
Currently, Fanta is interning in STAC’s Student Financial Services Office where she assists students and works on social media. She also serves as one of STAC’s lead Admissions Ambassadors. “I love being an ambassador because I get to meet incoming students and help them make a really important decision in their life – which college they are going to attend.”
Fanta credits STAC’s Admissions team for being welcoming and supportive to her both from when she was a prospective student herself to now as a member of the campus community. “The team works so well together,” Fanta says, adding that she is especially grateful to her supervisor, Victoria, who is always giving her “opportunities to grow and do what I love.” She also notes a few others who have helped pave the way for her success in college: Samantha Bazile, STAC’s Director of Student Engagement and Chief Diversity Officer, a valued mentor; Professor DeRosa, who has encouraged Fanta to continue with her poetry writing; and Dr. Trendafilov, who “constantly goes the extra mile to make sure we are successful.”
Fanta is quick to share many reasons she loves being a student at STAC. She describes campus life as “supportive, welcoming, and engaging,” and notes all of the fun activities on and off campus that students may participate in, including attending Yankee games, trips to Six Flags, roller skating, and more.
Her field of study is the perfect fit for Fanta who says that the STAC School of Business Alumni Connection Reception sealed the deal on her college and career choices. “Being able to see and hear from successful STAC alumni helped me realize that I was on the right path,” she says. “They mentioned that although it was challenging at times, STAC helped them get to where they are today, due to the professors not giving up on them and constantly providing them with opportunities to learn and grow,” such as the Fed Challenge and internships.
One of Fanta’s other dreams for the future is to become an entrepreneur, combining her interest in business with her cooking and baking skills to open a restaurant someday. For now, she is enjoying every moment of her college years, immersing herself in her studies, and working hard to establish a new club where she can share her love of poetry with other STAC students.
Written by Claire Curry