Serving Up Success: Ela Platenikova Leads Worldwide Terps

Hello Worldwide Terp family,

My name is Ela Platenikova, and I’m the newly elected president of Worldwide Terps for the 2024-25 academic year. As a sophomore international student-athlete on Maryland’s tennis team, I understand the difficulties associated with studying and competing for an institution in a country away from home.

I’m from Bratislava, Slovakia, and like many other international students, I came to the United States and attended the University of Maryland because of the outstanding academic and athletic programs available to all students. I aim to get into the Robert H. Smith School of Business and study management or business.

As President of Worldwide Terps, I’m looking forward to working with a diverse group of students, learning their perspectives, and advocating for their needs through my platform. Worldwide Terps plays a vital role because international student-athletes face challenges that others don’t.

Worldwide Terps and I plan to alleviate issues such as adapting to a new culture, managing the pressures of academics and athletics, and navigating immigration, visas, and tax issues — all challenges I faced when moving to the U.S. 

I plan to continue the great work accomplished by Worldwide Terps’ previous president, Karla Elena Vázquez Setzer, who is now serving as vice president. Together, we will bring a unique combination of experience in leadership positions and a passion for helping student-athletes like us.

Before I came to Maryland, I had never lived in a country other than Slovakia or even studied a different language. Once I arrived, I needed clarification about everything. However, Worldwide Terps made my transition possible. An added benefit I received was getting to know new people who understood me because they experienced similar struggles.

As a friendly, communicative, and organized person, I want to help new and current students as much as possible. That's also why I know that with my skills, I can contribute to the success and well-being of our international student-athlete community and ensure that every member feels supported.

One significant goal I aim to achieve in my leadership role for Worldwide Terps is to enhance the support and resources available to international student-athletes during their transition and throughout their academic and athletic journeys.

Firstly, I will establish partnerships with experienced student-athletes, alums, and university staff who can mentor incoming international students. These mentors will provide guidance, advice, and support for the challenges and experiences faced by international student-athletes.

Additionally, I will organize workshops, seminars, and social events focused on topics such as cultural adaptation, time management, and mental health awareness. These initiatives will foster a sense of belonging and community among international student-athletes while also equipping them with the skills and resources needed to thrive both academically and athletically. 

Through these efforts, I aim to create a supportive and inclusive environment within Worldwide Terps where international student-athletes feel empowered to succeed and reach their full potential.

I can’t wait to start my leadership role and make connections for myself and others. Under my leadership, we will continue to grow the international student-athlete community and foster an environment that embraces the Maryland Made motto. International student-athletes can be who they are and love what they do with Worldwide Terps.

Ela Platenikova

Worldwide Terps is a student group designed to support the international student-athlete experience. In the past, several community-building events and educational sessions have been held to foster engagement and support among members. Notable events include the WWT Welcome Back Party and the WWT Holiday Dinner, which aimed to bring people together and celebrate the community. Additionally, a Dodgeball Tournament was organized in collaboration with SAAC, promoting teamwork and interaction in a fun, competitive setting.

In terms of collaborations and educational initiatives, the ISSS (International Student and Scholar Services) has played a crucial role by providing international student-athletes with important information about their resources, visa requirements, work experience, and other relevant topics. Furthermore, TerpTax has been involved in assisting individuals with tax-related matters, offering valuable guidance and support.

Worldwide Terps executive board will be working closely with the International Student-Athlete Working Group which consists of Sydney Anderson (Maryland Made), Sydney Steinberg (Academics) and Kari De Hof (Compliance).