The PANANOLE News: FSU-Panama Student E-Zine

Philip L. Denis (“Philly D”) was born in Aurora, IL, USA (which is right outside of Chicago for those of you who have never heard of Aurora). He was born on February 25, 1981, making him a whopping 22. He has an older sister, Melissa, and a younger brother, John, all born of a beautiful Puerto Rican woman named Millie. Philly D was not always fond of school. In fact, he was a high school dropout who realized how vital his education was, so he returned to school. I wish to thank Philip for taking the time to answer my questions.

Kiener: To begin, tell me a little about yourself.

Denis: I am a transfer student from the University of Wisconsin-Richland. A professor there by the name of Dr. Emil Haney inspired me to travel while studying, so I came to Panama to study abroad and gain a better understanding of international relations. I am in pursuit of a major in International Affairs, with an emphasis in Political Science and Latin American/Caribbean Studies. Being in Panama I have had the opportunity to get involved in Student Government and run for office in this year’s elections.

Kiener: What thoughts were going through your mind during the campaign period?

Denis: At that moment I was thinking, “Man, I wish there were more students who cared about their education.” I wanted every student to become more involved in campus life. My thoughts changed, though, when as election day drew closer, more and more students came out and got involved. I think this was a turning point for the FSU-Panama community. We had record setting numbers in all the categories this past election.

Kiener: During the next Student Government term, what new policies are you planning to implement?

Denis: As President, the basic concept I’ll try to stress is that we, the students, are responsible for a huge part of our own educational experience. Therefore, we need strong and productive representation from our government. Leadership is best achieved through service, not big political speeches. This term, our government will focus primarily on issues that directly affect students. For example, improvements in course offerings, as well as creating student surveys (done by the students for the students), which will available to the students, and to continue to improve campus life. Those will be the main things we will focus on this semester. Overall, we, the Student Government Association of FSU-Panama, will take academic concerns along with social concerns to the Administration and give you the representation that you, the students, deserve.

Keiner: Do you think the previous Student Council did a good job?

Denis: I was an Academic Representative last semester, and I think that we did the best job possible, considering the circumstances. We had a solid constitution, but we did not organize meetings well. Sincerely, though, we tried our best. But one can always admit that there is room for improvement. Since last year we have reorganized ourselves to be more efficient and productive.

Kiener: What Student activities are you planning to conduct this semester?

Denis: Well, we’ve already had some successes. For instance, everyone had a blast at this year’s cookout. We planned some fun things for Halloween this week. We plan to participate in Panama’s Telethon coming up in December, and we plan to end the year with a bang with a huge party called Seminole Night.

Kiener: People have said that previous Student Councils have been authoritarian, do you agree or disagree, and what do you plan to do during this period for the Student Council to work as a team?

Denis: I have to disagree with the belief that last year’s Student Council was authoritarian. Last year, in fact, we were only a council. No one had control over the meetings. Since the council was disorganized, some decisions had to be made without much discussion. But with our new constitution and our new system we have the tools necessary to ensure that no single person is in control. That should promote teamwork and democratic governance.

Kiener: Would you consider politics as a career in the future?

Denis: Yes, ma’am. That is what I truly want to do in life, to work in public administration. I have always been fascinated with the decision making process, but I have been discouraged at times to see the immense amount of corruption that seems to go with it.

Kiener: Philly, one final question: what words of wisdom would you give your fellow students?

Denis: To enjoy this part of their lives because you will never get it back. To get involved and create lasting memories and, lastly, to search for your life’s purpose . . . hint: it’s not about you! God Bless.

Photo courtesy of Ursula Kiener