Andreea Stanescu, known as "Bunny" to her teammates, is a vocal and energetic leader on and off the courts. The captain of the women's tennis team not only finds time to excel in the classroom and in competition, but also serves as the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) President.

The Romania native began playing tennis at the age of five. Although she was much smaller than everyone around her, she always found a way to be a large force on the tennis courts. Stanescu did not know about Georgia State until head tennis coach, Alex Leatu, visited Stanescu's club back in Romania. 

"GSU was a very spontaneous decision for me, but I am very happy that I ended up here because of the relationships I have made as well as the people I have met," said Stanescu.

Despite being in a new country and far from home, Stanescu has always embraced Georgia State and the surrounding community by taking chances to be involved. Stanescu was asked to represent the women's tennis team on the SAAC. A year later she would make another spontaneous decision- to run for President. The junior was selected and spends much of her free time working towards bettering the GSU and surrounding communities. 

"I oversee around 29 representatives from all the teams here at GSU and I am responsible for organizing projects, meetings, and other athletic events," said Stanescu.

As a member of SAAC, prior to the pandemic Stanescu was able to play tennis with children and plan activities at local middle schools. Currently, Stanescu and the rest of SAAC have had to be more creative and figure out ways to continue to better the community. The group has made three committees in response, which are all currently working towards different projects and outreach goals. Additionally, as the President of SAAC, Stanescu helped organize Georgia State's social justice march in November.

The business administration major's leadership extends to the tennis court, where she is always the most vocal and charismatic person. Her vivaciousness ignites her teammates in practices and matches.  This energy helped Stanescu secure a come from behind victory to clinch a conference match against South Alabama during her rookie season. This match remains her favorite memory competing in blue and white. During this year's young campaign, Stanescu has secured two singles victories.  

With her leadership capabilities, it is no surprise that Stanescu's goal is to own her own business one day. Stanescu credits much of her success up until this point to the lessons she has learned from graduate assistant and former Panther, Daniela Ramirez. Additionally, she believes these lessons will help in her endeavors post-graduation. 

"Daniela Ramirez is one of the people I always look up to," said Stanescu. "Her dedication to this team and her power of doing anything she has put her mind into has been an inspiration to me to always push myself to my limits."

Stanescu and the Panthers return to action Friday at the College of Charleston. Follow the team on Twitter (@GSUWTennis) and Instagram (@GSUWomensTennis) for the latest news and notes.