Micahyas Akama

I come from a world where culture, tradition and family values are the most important.
I come from a world where the people are happy just to see another sunrise.
I come from a world where life changing opportunities are rare.

Growing up with my grandparents in Ethiopia, a third world country in Africa- has helped me discover who I am today. Adhering to our traditional values, respecting our culture and the elderly were the ethics most emphasized by my grandparents. Having the opportunity to go to college in America is itself a huge motivation for me to make a difference in this world. It still influences some aspects of my life. It has made me a disciplined and respectful individual. Wherever I go, I will know who I am and where I come from.

Currently, I attend Frostburg State University. I intend to transfer to University of Maryland- Baltimore County on spring of 2015.My major is Economics & Global Studies, . While at UMBC, I plan to pursue leadership positions. I want to become a Resident Assistant and contribute my charisma and friendliness to bring a sense of community and belonging within students/residents. In the future, with the education that I gain UMBC, I want to make a difference for people in my birth country of Ethiopia. It is really important for me to help kids who have big dreams and give them an opportunity to do so.

During my time at UMBC, I am planning on doing a Study Abroad.Study Abroad will enrich my understanding of the global society through an experience. This is beneficial for my future career as I want to pursue Global studies and Economics and gaining understanding, respect, and appreciation for other cultures is key in succeeding in such a career. In the future I would like to work in Non-Governmental Organizations.

The sense of helping others that are in need or less fortunate motivated me to pursue a career in Non-Governmental Organizations. There, I will be able to exert my knowledge, assistance and wisdom upon those people in hopes of contributing my essence in the pursuit of a better world. I will like to concentrate on Africa and its development. Growing up in Africa, I learned that many kids that have the ability to do so many things, but that light is cut short because of lack of opportunities, poverty and lack proper education. I would like to contribute my knowledge and skills gained through UMBC to help reduce poverty in Africa and help children achieve their dreams.