My name is Etsubdink Hasan, and I am a senior student at Minnesota State University, Mankato, majoring in Finance and Accounting. I have always been fascinated by finance not just as a career path but as a tool to create opportunities and drive positive change in communities. My goal is to become an investment banker after graduation, where I can help businesses grow, especially those from underserved communities, by providing access to capital and strategic financial guidance. Throughout my time in college, I have taken on leadership roles that have allowed me to grow personally and professionally. I was elected President of the International Student Association during my sophomore year, a role that involved leading over 1,000 students from diverse cultural backgrounds. This leadership experience strengthened my confidence and taught me valuable lessons in resilience, communication, and teamwork. It also gave me the opportunity to organize cultural festivals and events, such as the university’s Homecoming Parade, where I helped create spaces for community celebration and cultural exchange. Being an international student has come with many challenges. Balancing the demands of my academic coursework, leadership responsibilities, and financial obligations has required careful time management and perseverance. The financial strain, in particular, has been a constant challenge. Receiving this scholarship would greatly alleviate that burden, allowing me to focus more fully on my studies and continue my involvement in leadership and community service. It would also provide me with the stability needed to explore additional opportunities for growth, such as internships and workshops that align with my career goals. Beyond my education, I am committed to giving back to both the communities I am part of here in the United States and those in my home country of Ethiopia. I plan to use the skills I develop in finance and accounting to mentor young students, especially those from immigrant or underserved backgrounds, helping them navigate the academic and professional worlds. Additionally, I aspire to establish financial literacy programs and consulting services that support small businesses and entrepreneurs, focusing on women and youth, both locally and in Ethiopia. My vision is to help these individuals gain the financial tools and access to capital necessary to build successful, sustainable futures. This scholarship represents more than financial assistance to me. It is an investment in my potential to make a meaningful impact. With this support, I can continue my education without distraction and expand my ability to lead, serve, and empower others. I am grateful for the opportunity to be considered and hopeful that with this assistance, I will be better equipped to contribute positively to my community and beyond.

Community has been one of the most powerful sources of strength, motivation, and hope in my life. During my time at Minnesota State University, Mankato, I’ve learned that when people come together to support one another, celebrate their differences, and work toward a common goal, amazing things can happen. One of the most meaningful moments in my college experience was being elected President of the International Student Association during my sophomore year. I had only been involved for a short time, so being chosen so early in my college career was both surprising and deeply motivating. I saw it as an opportunity not just to lead, but to build something greater than myself a space where students from all over the world could feel a sense of belonging and pride in who they are. Early on, our organization faced real challenges: limited funding, low participation, and the difficulty of bringing people from so many backgrounds together. But I believed in the power of cultural connection, and I worked hard to bring new energy and vision to the group. We organized events that highlighted the traditions, food, and music of dozens of countries. One of the most impactful was our annual International Festival, where students shared their cultures with the wider campus and local community. I proudly represented Ethiopia wearing traditional clothing, sharing our food, and introducing others to our music and dance. What struck me most was the excitement and curiosity from students of all backgrounds. I saw friendships form over shared meals and unfamiliar dances, and I realized just how powerful culture can be in building unity. Being part of this community taught me more than just event planning or leadership skills. It taught me foundational human values starting with the simple act of saying “thank you.” I learned to respect everyone’s unique background, listen patiently, and show kindness even in difficult moments. These small acts of gratitude and respect became the glue that held our diverse group together. They taught me that leadership is not just about making decisions but about honoring the dignity of every person and fostering an environment where everyone feels valued. That experience taught me valuable lessons about connection, resilience, and kindness. Behind every event were moments of stress, late nights, and unexpected obstacles. But my team and I kept going because we believed in our mission: to bring people together and make everyone feel seen. In doing so, I became a stronger leader, a better communicator, and more confident in myself. Being part of this community showed me that leadership isn’t about standing in front it’s about lifting others up. It taught me to listen, to collaborate, and to approach every situation with empathy and purpose. These experiences continue to shape my vision for the future. As a Finance and Accounting major, I plan to pursue a career in investment banking. But more than that, I want to use my knowledge to make an impact. I hope to one day open a financial consulting firm that helps small businesses and underrepresented entrepreneurs especially those in African communities and underserved areas gain access to financial guidance and support. I believe that finance can be used not just for growth, but for empowerment. The hope I have for the future comes directly from what I’ve learned through community. When people come together with open hearts and mutual respect, barriers fall away and possibilities expand

My name is Etsubdink Hasan, and I am a senior at Minnesota State University, Mankato, majoring in Finance and Accounting. I am a proud first-generation African immigrant from Ethiopia, and my cultural background has played a powerful role in shaping my values, leadership, and vision for the future. From the moment I arrived in the United States, I knew I carried more than just the dream of an education I carried the responsibility to represent my heritage, support my community, and uplift others. When I came to the U.S., everything felt unfamiliar new systems, new culture, new challenges. Yet I knew that if I stayed true to who I was, I could find my way. I wanted people to see the beauty, richness, and strength of African culture. That passion led me to join the International Student Association during my freshman year. To my surprise, just one year later, as a sophomore and still fairly new to the country, I was elected President of the association. Leading over 1,000 international students from around the world after just one year in the U.S. was an incredible honor and a major turning point in my journey. Being president wasn’t just a title it was a mission. I organized cultural events, language exchange programs, and collaboration nights where students from different countries could share food, music, stories, and traditions. I made it my personal goal to highlight African culture, especially my Ethiopian roots, and to encourage others from all over the world to be proud of their own heritage too. It brought me joy to see students gain confidence, form friendships, and learn about each other’s cultures through our programs. This experience strengthened my confidence and taught me how to lead with empathy, purpose, and resilience. I faced challenges tight budgets, cultural misunderstandings, logistical setbacks but each one taught me how to adapt, communicate better, and lead through uncertainty. Most of all, I realized the power of unity in diversity. I saw how creating inclusive spaces could build stronger communities and break down barriers. Outside of student leadership, I’ve continued to serve by mentoring new international students, helping them navigate campus life, and introducing them to academic and cultural resources. My cultural background, my leadership experiences, and my studies in finance and accounting are all connected by one core belief: that knowledge should be used to uplift others. My long-term goal is to become an investment banker and eventually start a financial consulting firm that empowers entrepreneurs in Ethiopia and across Africa. I want to help small businesses especially those led by youth and women gain the tools and capital they need to grow. I also want to offer financial literacy programs to underserved communities both in the U.S. and in Ethiopia, creating opportunities where there are currently obstacles. I believe finance can be used not only for profit but for progress. Receiving the Dr. Soronnadi Nnaji Legacy Scholarship would mean more than financial assistance it would be an affirmation of the values I hold close: education, cultural pride, leadership, and service. Dr. Nnaji’s story inspires me deeply. Like him, I want to turn my academic achievements into real impact, both here and in my home country. His journey proves that excellence and service can go hand in hand and that’s the legacy I aim to build as well. Thank you for considering my application. With your support, I hope to continue honoring my heritage, empowering others, and building bridges between cultures through leadership and education.

My name is Etsubdink Hasan, and I am a senior at Minnesota State University, Mankato, majoring in Finance and Accounting. I came to the United States from Ethiopia with a dream of gaining a world-class education and using it not only to build a meaningful career but also to create lasting change in my community. As an international student, my journey has been full of challenges adapting to a new culture, being far away from my family, and balancing academics with leadership roles, but every step has strengthened my purpose and resilience. From an early age, I was fascinated by how money works not just as a tool for personal wealth, but as a force that drives entire economies and shapes people’s lives. Growing up in Ethiopia, I saw the struggles of families and small businesses who lacked access to capital, financial knowledge, or opportunities. These observations stayed with me and motivated me to pursue a degree in finance and accounting, with the goal of becoming an investment banker. After graduation, I plan to work in the investment banking industry in the U.S., where I can gain the practical experience and technical expertise needed to thrive in complex financial environments. My goal is to learn from some of the best professionals in the field, build a strong network, and sharpen my ability to analyze financial data, manage portfolios, and structure investments that help businesses grow. But beyond building a career for myself, I have a bigger vision. I want to use the knowledge and skills I gain to create a positive impact in both of my communities the one I’ve built here in the U.S., and the one I come from in Ethiopia. In the U.S., I want to work on initiatives that support underserved communities, especially immigrants and minority-owned small businesses. I know firsthand how intimidating financial systems can be for those unfamiliar with them. That’s why I hope to partner with local organizations to offer free financial literacy workshops and mentorship programs that empower individuals to make informed decisions about saving, investing, and managing their resources. I want to be a bridge for others like me, showing them that success in finance is possible and accessible. Back home in Ethiopia, my long-term goal is to launch a financial consulting and investment firm that focuses on supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), particularly those run by women and young entrepreneurs. Access to capital and reliable financial advice is limited in many parts of Ethiopia, and I believe that by providing these resources, I can help local businesses thrive, create jobs, and stimulate economic development. I also want to work with schools and community centers to promote financial education at an early age, helping young people build the tools they need to secure their futures. Everything I do is driven by a deep desire to give back. I’ve been given a rare opportunity to learn, grow, and lead in a new country, and I don’t take that for granted. My education in finance and accounting is not just for me; it’s for every young person who dreams of a better future but lacks the resources to get there. By combining global knowledge with local passion, I believe I can help build stronger, more financially empowered communities on both sides of the world. That’s the impact I hope to make with dedication, vision, and heart.

When I arrived at Minnesota State University, Mankato as an international student, I faced many of the same challenges that others like me experience culture shock, language barriers, homesickness, and the constant pressure to prove myself. I knew I wasn’t alone in feeling that way, so I sought out student organizations where I could connect with others and feel a sense of belonging. That’s when I became involved with the Global Business Club and the International Student Association. Eventually, I stepped up to lead both organizations as president, and it turned out to be one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of my life. When I first took over the Global Business Club, it was nearly inactive. Attendance was low, there was no clear structure, and many students didn’t even know the club existed. It was disheartening, but I saw an opportunity not just to lead, but to rebuild. I began by reaching out personally to classmates, professors, and international students to hear their thoughts and ideas. I wanted people to feel ownership of the club, not just show up for meetings. I also applied for funding, created a semester-long calendar of events, and partnered with the College of Business to host guest speakers and networking events. At the same time, I was also elected President of the International Student Association. The group had a similar challenge students from all over the world were members, but there was no strong connection or shared vision. I knew from personal experience how valuable it was to have a space where international students could be heard, celebrated, and supported. I worked with a small leadership team to organize cultural nights, language exchange meetups, and community service projects that brought people together from different backgrounds. Balancing leadership of two organizations, academics, and a part-time job wasn’t easy. There were times I felt completely overwhelmed. I remember one week in particular both clubs had big events scheduled, I had two exams, and a personal emergency back home in Ethiopia left me emotionally drained. I wanted to quit. But then I thought about why I started: I wanted others to feel like they belonged, like they had a voice. That purpose kept me going. Over time, both organizations transformed. The Global Business Club began attracting not just international students, but domestic students who were eager to learn about global markets and cultures. The International Student Association became a vibrant community, where students celebrated each other’s traditions, supported each other through struggles, and formed lifelong friendships. Through these experiences, I learned that leadership is not about holding a title it’s about serving others, creating space for people to grow, and being resilient in the face of obstacles. I didn’t always have all the answers, and I made plenty of mistakes, but I always listened, adapted, and stayed committed to the vision. Looking back, I’m proud not just of what we built, but of the people we empowered. I’ve seen shy students step up to speak at events, nervous newcomers find confidence, and strangers become friends. That’s what leadership means to me lifting others while you climb. These experiences taught me the kind of leader I want to be in the future: one who listens with empathy, acts with purpose, and never gives up, even when the path is difficult. Because I’ve learned that some of the most meaningful growth happens when you keep going, even when it would be easier to stop.

What makes me different is my story where I come from, the journey I’ve taken, and how I’ve learned to carry myself through it all. I was born and raised in Ethiopia, a place full of beauty, community, and strength but also challenges. Moving to the United States for school was one of the biggest and scariest steps of my life. I didn’t have all the answers, and honestly, I still don’t. But I’ve learned to be adaptable, patient with myself, and determined no matter what comes my way. Right now, I’m a senior majoring in finance. That might sound like a simple statement, but behind it is a lot of struggle late nights studying, juggling work and classes, worrying about bills, and sometimes feeling like I don’t fully belong. But I keep going. Not just for myself, but for the people back home who are watching me from afar, and for anyone who might be quietly looking at me and thinking, “If she can do it, maybe I can too.” What makes me unique isn’t just my background it’s how I move through life with purpose and quiet strength. I’ve learned that the way you carry yourself matters, even when no one says anything. You never really know who’s paying attention. Maybe it’s a classmate who’s shy and doesn’t speak up, or a coworker who’s struggling in silence, or even a younger student who sees you as an example without you knowing. That’s why I try to show up every day with kindness, consistency, and a willingness to help. I’m not perfect. There are days I feel tired, unsure, or even lost. But even then, I try to treat people with respect, to listen before speaking, and to keep pushing forward because I know my actions can make a difference, even in small ways. That’s the kind of impact I want to make not just through words, but by how I live. When I work on group projects or during internships, I don’t try to be the loudest voice. Instead, I try to bring in ideas, stay open to learning, and support others. I ask questions. I listen. I do my part. I want others to feel like their voice matters too, especially those who feel overlooked. I remember how hard it was when I first got here feeling like an outsider, trying to prove myself. I never want someone else to feel alone in that way if I can help it. I think one of the quietest but most powerful ways to make a difference is just by being real. I try to be honest about my experiences the good and the hard parts because I’ve found that when I’m open, people feel safer being themselves too. That honesty builds trust. It creates connection. And sometimes, that’s all someone needs to see one person doing their best and staying true to themselves. At the end of the day, I hope my journey speaks for itself. Not just through degrees or job titles, but through how I treat people, how I keep going even when it’s tough, and how I never forget where I came from. If someone sees that and feels inspired even if I never know it then that means everything to me. Because to me, success isn’t just about getting to the top. It’s about reaching back, lifting others, and knowing that your story mattered to someone even if you never see it happen.

I was born in Ethiopia, a country that holds so much beauty, resilience, and history but also many challenges. Growing up, I saw people work incredibly hard just to meet their basic needs. I saw how something as simple as a clean glass of water, a nourishing meal, or a safe place to play could change a child’s entire day or even their future. Those early memories stayed with me. They’ve shaped the way I see the world and why I care so deeply about wellness, access, and creating environments that allow people especially children to thrive. Now, working in childcare in the U.S., I’m reminded every day of how much the environment around a child matters. The food they eat, the air they breathe, the safety and kindness they’re surrounded by it all makes a difference. Many of the children and families I work with face their own hardships. Some don’t have access to fresh food. Others are navigating life with limited income or support. These experiences have fueled my dream: to help build a world where wellness and sustainability aren’t luxuries, but things every child and family can count on. Over the next five years, I want to create positive environmental change in two places that mean the world to me: my current community in the U.S., and the country that raised me Ethiopia. Here, I want to lead local wellness programs rooted in education and community. I imagine weekend workshops where families can learn how to cook healthy meals on a budget, how to grow simple foods in small garden spaces, and how to reduce waste in ways that feel doable. I’ve seen firsthand how something like teaching a child to plant a seed can build pride, curiosity, and care for the earth. I want to help create more of those moments. I also dream of opening a community café one that serves not just healthy food, but education, hope, and opportunity. This café would partner with local farms, reduce waste through composting and reusable materials, and offer job training for young people interested in hospitality. It would be a space where people feel nourished in every sense physically, emotionally, and mentally. But my vision doesn’t stop here. I want to take what I’ve learned and give back to Ethiopia. In many parts of my home country, families still cook over open fires, which pollute the air and harm health. Clean water is hard to find. Schools often lack basic nutrition programs. I want to work with organizations and local leaders to introduce eco-friendly cooking tools, teach sustainable farming practices, and build school-based programs where kids learn not only how to stay healthy, but how to care for their environment too. And because money plays a big role in all of this, I also plan to lead simple financial literacy programs especially for women and caregivers so that families can learn how to stretch their income in ways that still allow for healthy, sustainable choices. I know from experience that even when resources are limited, knowledge can make a world of difference. Everything I’ve done from growing up in Ethiopia to working with children now has shown me how deeply connected our health, our environment, and our futures are. I may not have all the answers yet, but I have the heart, the experience, and the drive to keep learning and building solutions that truly serve people. With this scholarship, I’ll be able to take the next step toward dream to help create a more caring, starting with communities that raised me into who I am today.

I didn’t grow up with a clear path laid out in front of me. Like many people, I come from a background where financial uncertainty wasn’t just a topic of conversation it was part of daily life. Watching the people around me struggle to budget, navigate loans, or even understand basic financial documents made me wonder: why does something so important feel so inaccessible? That question led me to finance not just as a field of study, but as a personal mission. I didn’t choose finance because I loved math (though I do enjoy problem-solving); I chose it because I saw the power that financial systems have to either empower or limit people. I realized that if I could understand how those systems work, I could help make them work better for people who’ve been left out of the conversation. My passion for this field deepened during the RMA Credit Line Risk Analysis Competition. It was the first time I applied what I’d been learning in a real-world simulation, and to my surprise, I earned second place. But more than the score, what stayed with me was how much thought and strategy goes into evaluating risk something banks and lenders do every day, with real consequences for real people. That experience helped me understand that finance isn’t just about money. It’s about decisions, ethics, fairness, and opportunity. Since then, I’ve been participating in externship programs that give me a closer look at the industry. In those roles, I’ve seen both the strengths and weaknesses of our current financial systems. I’ve seen businesses that are held back by confusing regulations or outdated technologies. I’ve seen everyday people denied access to services simply because they don’t have the right documentation or knowledge to navigate the process. These experiences have confirmed something I already felt: we need a more human-centered approach to finance. One way we can improve the system is by focusing on financial literacy, and not just in schools, but in communities where it’s most needed. Many people feel intimidated by terms like “interest rate,” “credit utilization,” or “risk assessment,” even though these things impact their lives every day. I want to help change that by making financial education more relatable and easier to understand. I believe that when people are equipped with the right knowledge, they make smarter choices and are better able to protect themselves and their futures. Another area where I see room for growth is in technology and accessibility. Too many financial tools are designed without the end user in mind. I want to be part of developing tools that are intuitive, transparent, and inclusive platforms that don’t just serve high-income earners or people with perfect credit, but that help everyone access the resources they need to succeed. Ultimately, I want to be a finance professional who leads with both skill and empathy. I want to be someone who understands the data but never forgets the human story behind it. My goal is not just to succeed in this field, but to bring others with me to create a ripple effect of knowledge, confidence, and positive change. This field matters to me because it touches every part of people’s lives. And I believe I can be part of the solution not by doing everything, but by doing my part with care, with purpose, and with people at the heart of it.

Education is one of the most powerful tools we have to combat intimate partner violence. It empowers individuals to recognize unhealthy behaviors, understand their rights, and seek help when needed. By integrating education about respect, consent, and communication into school curricula, we can shape positive attitudes toward relationships from a young age. It also equips communities with the knowledge to break the cycle of violence and stigma that often prevents survivors from coming forward. When people are informed and supported, they become active bystanders who can intervene and advocate for those in unsafe situations. Simply put, education sparks the awareness and compassion that can change social norms and pave the way for a future free of abuse. How I plan to use my degree and personal experiences to impact positive change: With my degree, I want to channel both my expertise and my personal commitment into creating real, lasting impact. My personal experiences have shown me the strength it takes to stand up to injustice, and they have fueled my passion for empowering others to do the same. Drawing on my leadership skills as the founder of the Global Business Club and my financial expertise as a top finalist in the RMA credit analysis competition, I plan to leverage my career to advocate for programs that support vulnerable communities especially women and children affected by intimate partner violence. More specifically, I aim to collaborate with local and international organizations to design educational workshops, support groups, and resource centers that help survivors heal and regain independence. I will also work with policy makers to ensure that laws and funding reflect the urgent need for prevention, shelter, counseling, and economic opportunity for those affected. Every action I take will be guided by my core belief that everyone deserves safety, respect, and a voice. By using my education, my personal resilience, and my passion for justice, I plan to inspire others and help build a world where intimate partner violence is not tolerated and where compassion and empowerment lead the way. By leveraging my education and personal experiences, I aim to promote prevention, empower survivors, and advocate for policies that end the cycle of intimate partner violence. I am driven by a deep commitment to creating safer communities, and with the support of this scholarship, I will gain the tools and connections to make that vision a reality, and also it will help my country too.