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Cluttered, or what we call “extremely well-organized chaos,” the many random items in Maria Aladjova’s office reflect a lifelong curiosity. There are LGBTQ hearts, the flag of her native Bulgaria, her dream catcher, and a picture of Simba. The Lion King, and volleyball, the sport that first drew her to campus some 20 years ago. They put students at ease and spark conversations with her freshman in the School of Integrative Health Sciences.
A four-year volleyball star with UNLV, Arajova graduated with a BA in Psychology in 2008. He graduated from Bulgaria with a master’s degree in sports psychology in 2009. In 2019 he returned to UNLV for a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Earlier this year, she was named Distinguished Advisor and co-chaired NACADA’s Regional Conference (Academic Advising with her Coordinator Janelle Yasukochi). .
What was your first impression of UNLV when you were recruited to play volleyball in 2004 when you didn’t know much English?
I was miserable. I was very homesick. I was overwhelmed. i was scared And because change was difficult, I expressed my fears in a very controversial way. I was so sad, but I didn’t know how to say it in a meaningful way. Language barriers were often the cause. I was counting the days I would stay home until the end of the school year.
Interestingly, when I look at the Thomas & Mac Center on my way to the airport, I feel homesick for Thomas & Mac. what happened? What is this? Suddenly I ok i miss this placeBack in my sophomore year, I was here, ready to finally commit to making the most of it.
What made you want to study psychology?
I have always been interested in why people act out of pure curiosity. Because I wanted to know why people get out of bed in the morning. What prompts you to choose x versus y? If it’s just the money factor, ok. What about people motivated by additional factors, such as the sheer joy of learning or the sheer joy of winning?
Describe your relationship to your parents, volleyball, and your chosen studies and careers.
I am who I am today mainly because my parents raised me. As former professional athletes, they valued discipline, work ethic, dedication and resilience. Setting goals and completing them was mandatory and expected. Joining UNLV was another task I had to complete. Like “Rebels Make it Happen!”
This sport has given me a lot. Being able to work with people in a team. To be a leader, captain, follower if desired. Being able to hold yourself accountable when you make a mistake. Can help teammates when needed. When I have work to do, I make sure I get it done. And for the team to be successful, they have to make sure they carry their own weight. Sports definitely taught me a lot.
How has your role as an academic advisor changed since the pandemic?
Pre-COVID it was mostly class scheduling. After COVID, we have noticed an increase in ADHD, social anxiety, depression and anxiety that students are having trouble talking to people or coming to our office. I have adjusted to having virtual appointments. I am trying to learn to adapt and spend more time bonding with my students and making them feel comfortable.
Are there any outstanding students?
When a student came into my office four years ago, she almost cried about her math class. she said. Mathematics is difficult. ’ And I said. i love language Words and letters speak to me. But numbers? We weren’t talking and we never were!” She started laughing and relaxed. I provided her with resources and let her know how to find her tutoring.
Mathematics was important to her major. She stayed in class, passed, and nearly got her degree. Now that we’re talking, she’s like, ‘Do you remember when I first came to your office?’ I was like, ‘Of course. .
What have you learned from your students over the years?
Be humble. Many advisors seem to forget the difficulty of putting themselves in the student’s shoes. Since they are young, we think their problems are less important. Turning 20 doesn’t make me any better or smarter. Let them teach me how I see the world through their eyes.
What was your presentation at the conference like?
Finding Harmony provides an overview of a recent wellness program for UNLV Academic Advisors. Making small changes in your daily routine can improve your overall mental health and well-being and help you avoid burnout. We talked about physical health, hydration, healthy food choices, reading, sleep, relationships, self-care, and gratitude.
what’s your best advice?
In the words of author Joel Barker, “Vision without action is just a dream. Action without vision is just passing the time. But vision with action can change the world.”
I also like Gandhi’s quote, “Be the change you want to see in the world.” We believe that we should lead by example. When we say something, it must match our actions.
Where is your favorite place on campus?
Our entire campus is just beautiful! When I was an athlete, I used to hang out with athletes a lot and participate in various athletic events. But in fourth grade, I had a roommate who was a musician, and she introduced us to our art building. I felt so clueless and ignorant and missing out. Was there and I didn’t know about it?
Looking back at 2004, can you imagine yourself still at UNLV 20 years from now?
Absolutely not. I was just another person. The adult you’re talking to now is back in her 2004 me, shaking her and saying, “Hey, okay. Just hug me.” Change sucks. No one likes change. But change is good. It looks like broccoli. We don’t necessarily like broccoli, but it’s good for us.
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