campus directory

Malaree Yablonski

Program of Emphasis: Social Work

Hometown: Todd, PA

High School: Huntingdon Area High School

Why I chose to attend Juniata: I chose to attend Juniata College because I grew up in the area. All of my life I heard great things about the college and always looked up to students I saw around town and who were student teachers in my schools. There were two other big factors that led to my decision to attend Juniata. I was not ready to leave the immediate area for my college career, so I wanted to stay close to home. Also, I come from a very large family that is unable to fully support me financially in my pursuit of higher education, so I have to pay my own way. Since the jobs I had secured during high school were local, going to Juniata was a natural choice. Juniata was a school that I really liked and it also allowed me to keep my employment while staying close to home.

Clubs and Organizations: I am the vice president for a club called Strong Voices. This club is dedicated to spreading awareness of sexual assault and promoting self empowerment. Through my role as vice president I help provide leadership to the group and see to it that the purpose of the group is carried out.

Travels Abroad: This past summer I traveled to The Gambia in Africa. This was my first experience in leaving the United States. The time I spent in The Gambia was extremely eye-opening and educational. I was able to be directly involved in another culture separate from my own and interact with others who have a different background than I. I was so inspired by the hospitality I was shown during this trip and am thankful for the Juniata community for providing the opportunity to participate in this experience.

Most Interesting Class: The most interesting class that I have taken so far this year is The History of God with Bob Miller and Belle Tuten. I consider myself a Christian, but have struggled with my understanding of the religion. I chose to take this course in the hopes that I would gain some understanding and insight into the foundation of the Christian religion. I am pleased to say that this course has met my expectation and has led me on a deep and abstract consideration of my faith that leaves me eager to go to class every day.

Favorite Faculty Member: To indicate one individual staff or faculty member would be unfair, in my opinion. I believe this because all of my professors and faculty members that I have been in contact with have made me feel extremely welcome in this community, increase my desire to learn, and make me smile every day.

Thank you!

I am extremely grateful for the opportunity that has been given to me by the Class of 1951. Their generous donations to the Juniata Scholarship Fund have helped make college more affordable to me. I work very hard at multiple jobs to provide my own financial support and pay for my college tuition. But, unfortunately, my work can only do so much, and where I fall short, the class of 1951 has helped me immensely in making ends meet. Without this financial support, I probably would not be able to afford to continue my education. I am thankful that alumni see the importance and need to donate to the scholarship fund. Your willingness to give has not only financially helped me, but has inspired me to continue to work hard so I can do the same as you in my future. Thank you!

Sincerely,
Malaree Yablonski
Class of 2014