For Sloane Harker, Montgomery County Community College was never supposed to be more than a temporary stop.

Instead, it became the place where she discovered her passion, developed leadership skills, found a future career path, and earned the opportunity to compete against some of the nation’s top business students.

The 25-year-old Harleysville resident recently graduated with an associate’s degree in Business Administration from Montgomery County Community College. Shortly after crossing the commencement stage, she headed to Las Vegas to represent the College at the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Collegiate National Leadership Conference, held June 6-8.

Joining three fellow MCCC students, Harker competed on the national stage after earning top honors in statewide business competitions.

“I’m very excited,” Harker said before the event. “To have our entire competing team be sent by Montco is amazing. I’m very excited to experience that and really take advantage of the resources and opportunities.”

A College Journey That Changed Everything

Harker’s connection to Montgomery County Community College began while she was still in high school through the College’s Dual Enrollment program.

After taking time away from school and navigating a significant life transition, she returned to higher education in Spring 2024. Initially enrolled as an Environmental Studies major, she wasn’t entirely sure where her path would lead.

She quickly realized she had found something unexpected.

“My experience at Montco was completely different from what I was expecting,” Harker said.

Originally planning to stay for only a semester or two while figuring out her next steps, Harker soon discovered the College offered more than affordability and convenience — it offered opportunities to explore new interests and build meaningful connections.

“It made me realize that this could be a place where I could discover my passions,” she said. “I didn’t need to rush out of here.”

That realization ultimately led her to Business Administration, a decision that would shape the next chapter of her academic and professional journey.

Discovering a Passion for Business and Leadership

Harker credits Management Assistant Professor Damon Gray with encouraging her to become involved with Phi Beta Lambda (PBL), the collegiate division of FBLA.

The decision proved transformative.

She first served as vice president and later president of MCCC’s PBL chapter, gaining leadership experience while participating in state and national competitions, networking opportunities, and professional development programs.

The organization also helped her build relationships with professionals and peers who could support her future career ambitions in accounting.

In 2025, Harker earned second place in Pennsylvania’s Organizational Behavior and Leadership competition and third place in the Management Case competition. She and teammate Emilio Siguenza advanced to the national finals in Dallas, where Harker ultimately placed ninth in the nation.

This year, she continued her success by earning first place in the Foundations of Accounting competition and fourth place in the Accounting Case competition at the state level, securing her place at the 2026 national conference in Las Vegas.

Turning Classroom Learning Into Career Opportunities

As her interest in accounting grew, Harker found an influential mentor in Accounting Instructor Pamela Kuperstein.

“It was in her class that she introduced me to the world of accounting and encouraged me to explore it as a professional path,” Harker said.

Kuperstein also connected Harker with opportunities outside the classroom, including representing Montgomery County Community College as a student panelist at a conference hosted by the Pennsylvania Institute of Certified Public Accountants.

“That experience really highlights the doors that Montco has opened for me,” she said.

Harker further strengthened her knowledge by serving as a supplemental instructor for accounting courses. Teaching fellow students helped reinforce concepts she was learning herself while providing valuable experience in mentoring and instruction.

“I’ve loved it,” she said. “It gave me experience in academia and allowed me to see if that was an option for a career. Maybe I could teach in the future.”

Becoming a Voice for Students

Beyond academics and competition, Harker embraced opportunities to advocate for the College and its students.

She testified before the Montgomery County Commissioners during budget hearings, sharing her personal experience and highlighting the resources and support systems that helped her succeed.

“It was great to be able to speak about that at that level,” she said. “Every opportunity to promote and advocate for Montco, I absolutely love to take.”

She also served as moderator for a discussion during the College’s 2026 Presidential Symposium on Diversity, leading a conversation with keynote speaker Dr. Omékongo Dibinga about leadership, purpose, and personal growth.

“Most of the questions were ones I had written,” Harker said. “And then to be able to also have a conversation about the symposium theme was really, really great.”

Looking Ahead to the Next Chapter

While Harker’s time at Montgomery County Community College has come to a close, the impact of her experience will continue long after graduation.

This fall, she will transfer to Drexel University to pursue a degree in Accounting, bringing with her the skills, confidence, and connections she developed during her time at Montco.

“I’m very excited,” she said. “I’m sad to be leaving here, but it’s part of the journey.”

Looking back, Harker says the mentorship, encouragement, and opportunities she found at MCCC helped shape her both personally and professionally.

“Their mentorship and guidance have been immeasurable,” she said. “I found my spot here. I’ve grown professionally, academically, and socially. I’m glad I stuck around here a little longer.”

Turning Ambition Into Opportunity

Students don’t always begin college with a clear roadmap. Sometimes the most important part of the journey is discovering what’s possible.

At Montgomery County Community College, students like Harker gain access to hands-on learning, leadership opportunities, mentorship, and transfer pathways that help transform interests into careers.

Whether you’re preparing to transfer to a four-year university, exploring a career in business or accounting, or looking for a place to discover your passion, Montgomery County Community College offers the resources and support to help you reach your goals. Learn more about MCCC’s Business Administration program and transfer opportunities here.