A New Start

Margarita Krasteva decided to attend Delaware Tech for its English as a Second Language (ESL) certificate that is offered at the College. Krasteva immigrated from Bulgaria to the United States "to seek a new start and a better future in a country where the sky is the limit." After completing the ESL program, she chose computer information systems as her major and graduated in 2009.

Krasteva always had a passion for computers and the increasing importance of technology, which made her major selection an easy choice for her. Prior to leaving Bulgaria, Krasteva studied at an Economics university.

Krasteva recalls feeling both nervous and excited on her first day at Delaware Tech. "Everything looked so different from what I'm used to – the many buildings on campus, the classrooms, the grading system, and the diversity of people." She was especially impressed with her Listening and Speaking course's sound booth and headphones that are available to the students.

A favorite memory of her time at Delaware Tech was her ESL certificate ceremony. "We had a celebration on the campus where the students from around the world were representing their countries with music, dance, and traditional food samples."

Krasteva's most rewarding experience at the College was completing the ESL program, which was accomplished before beginning her chosen major. "I believe that being fluent in English and having a degree is crucial for my success."

She goes on to say, "Delaware Tech taught me valuable knowledge about this diverse world, people, and concepts in general. These experiences are truly irreplaceable and I would not trade them for anything."

Krasteva believes graduating college was probably the most impactful thing in her life. Her message for prospective students is to "embrace this time. Learn from mistakes. Don't quit."

Now, Krasteva works as an operation coordinator for a US-based tour operator, Tenon Tours, that specializes in custom made trips to Europe.

Her career goals include obtaining higher credentials to become part of a leadership team. In a more personal sense, she plans to travel more and visit new places and cultures in the near future.