**Background and Inspiration for Pursuing Higher Education in the United States** My origin is Ethiopia, where my relatives had a lot of problems due to the economy and the unstable condition of our territory. Nevertheless, they taught me the value of education and its potential to truly change someone's life. They had a hard time making huge sacrifices in terms of money to cover my school fees, still, they never gave up, and they strived so much to let me have it understanding that it is the key to a brighter future. The social community from which I come is no exception to the presence of limitations in educational opportunities and it is by far a mirror of the other places where there is no availability of those education resources. In line with these restrictions, the society is destined to the unfulfilled talents just because they could not afford to pay for their education. This was the prime mover that led me to develop the resolve to outshine and look for chances in foreign countries. I perceived American higher education as a bridge that would provide me with an elite education, help me to see the world in a different way, and finally have a real impact on my home. **Challenges Overcome and Lessons Learned** One of the heaviest burdens that I had to carry was the fact that I had to pay for my own Pampherson College tuition as an international student. Mind you, coming from an economic background that barely breaks even with the requirements worsens it. Yet, instead of being perplexed or discouraged I used them as a stepping stone and took them as a motivation to intensify my will through the process of seeking out scholarships and financial aid. Even though it was this unfaltering determination that took me through I also managed to work on my extracurricular activities. This experience has proven my resilience, shrewdness, and the significance of catching up smartly with opportunities. It has underscored my conviction in the influence of breeding for education aside from other environmental challenges and thus work toward positive change. " **Somebody Who Has Inspired Me** My dad has become my chief inspirer. Nonetheless, he has all along been promoting the importance of education even when he used to meet enormous obstacles, and was persistent in exhorting me to make my dreams come true by all means. His unceasing confidence and trust in my capabilities have been a significant factor of support all through my life at school. His perseverance which he demonstrated when things were hard, for him, became a very strong epitome of how determination and persistence lead to the accomplishment of one's set goals. **The Post-Graduate Study Plan** At the end of my graduation period, I plan to gain admission to a graduate program either in business administration or in international relations. My main goal is to get the skills and knowledge necessary to be able to participate effectively in the growth of my community in Ethiopia. In the long run, I hope to use my education and past experience to facilitate positive changes and encourage people to make their own steps just as I did with the help of others. "