From Athens to Texas: The Remarkable Journey of Martha Makantasi

BY THOMAS ENGELBERT / Multimedia Journalist

Martha Makantasi, a 21-year-old native of Athens, Greece, has made an indelible mark on the Tarleton State University community as a standout athlete and engineering scholar.

Makantasi's journey to the United States began with her passion for tennis. 

"I was in my last year of high school, thinking about what I wanted to do," Makantasi said. "The option of playing sports and studying simultaneously isn't common in Greece. They told me about how they did here in the American universities and it sounds like a great idea honestly."

Recruited to the Tarleton tennis team, Makantasi also secured a scholarship, ultimately choosing Tarleton over other universities for its location in Texas, reminiscent of her homeland's climate.

"I didn't want to go somewhere where it snows all the time," Makantasi said. "Tarleton won for a lot of reasons, the fact that it's in Texas, was a big part of my decision made mostly because in Greece, the weather is similar to Texas."

Engineering was a natural choice for Makantasi, influenced by her father's profession. Initially starting as a mechanical engineering student, she later switched to electrical engineering, aiming to broaden her career prospects both in the U.S. and Greece.

Makantasi’s Academic Advisor, Dr. Denise Martinez is proud of her and the work she has accomplished while at Tarleton. 

“As her instructor for courses in which engineering problem solving and design are significant components, I have observed Martha to be a fast and independent learner who thinks outside the box,” Martinez said. “She is a dedicated student who enjoys putting theory into practice.  Beyond the classroom, this is demonstrated in her work with Karagianis Company to learn about the solar energy industry and her internship with KKM Photovoltaics. Martha has a diligent work ethic and has great intellectual ability. This is evidenced by the fact that she has been on the President’s List or Dean’s List every semester for the last four years.”

During her time at Tarleton, Makantasi also pursued internships, gaining hands-on experience at KKM Photo Voltaic, a company specializing in solar energy. 

"It was interesting to follow around actual engineers and see how they work," Martinez said, reflecting on her internship experience.

Balancing academics, athletics and extracurricular commitments was no small feat for Makantasi, but she thrived in a rigorous environment. 

"It was demanding, but it helped me be more on schedule and productive," Makantasi said, emphasizing the importance of time management.

Makantasi's contributions extended beyond the tennis court, earning accolades such as the All Western Athletic Conference First Team honors and playing a pivotal role in Tarleton's historic conference win during her sophomore year.

"It was one of the best memories I will forever have," Makantasi said.

Despite facing challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, Makantasi embraced her collegiate experience wholeheartedly.

"I haven't had one bad moment in my last four years," she declared, expressing gratitude for the supportive community at Tarleton.

Reflecting on her upbringing and the values instilled in her by her parents, Makantasi underscores the importance of resilience, perseverance and kindness. 

"My parents, they were always there for me since, the first day,” Makantasi said. “They pushed me to accomplish more and more, I told them I wanna keep going, and they were always there for me, trying to find solutions, help me with the whole process of coming to America and everything. I really look up to them. They're always there for me when I need them even if they're an ocean away right now."

Looking ahead, Makantasi plans to continue pursuing her passion for engineering while cherishing the friendships and memories she's made at Tarleton. 

"It's been a remarkable journey," Makantasi said, "and I'm grateful for every moment."

Dr. Martinez says Makantasi will be successful and is dedicated.

“Martha is very personable and polite,” Martinez said. “She’s both a leader and a team player. She is not shy about seeking help and asks intelligent, well-thought-out questions. She is passionate about her field and her future, and I am confident she will be successful in her pursuits.”