My Journey: From Humble Beginnings in East Africa, Ethiopia, Seeking a Brighter Tomorrow in the USA

 

Introduction

Born and raised in rural Ethiopia as the youngest of eight siblings, my path has been marked by numerous challenges. Yet, each obstacle has made me stronger and contributed to every success along the way.

Early Life and Family

My mother, a beacon of strength and compassion, faced numerous hardships while battling asthma. Despite dropping out of school in 6th grade due to an unexpected pregnancy, she worked tirelessly to ensure our survival by selling liquor, traditional beer, and injera. Her resilience and sacrifices have always been a source of inspiration for me to pursue higher education.

My father was born into a humble family and aspired to become a trader, but he was conscripted into military service during a tumultuous time in Ethiopia. Despite the dangers, he managed to finish high school and join the police force, narrowly escaping death during the civil rights movement. He is an idealistic person who believes everything is possible, which sets a strong example for me to put his idealization into practice.

Adapting to Change

As a result of my father's profession, we relocated frequently, making schooling a constant challenge. Each new place had its own language, and I often found myself struggling to catch up. Despite these difficulties, the unwavering support of my family, particularly my mother and older brother, enabled me to adapt and persevere. From a young age, I took on various jobs—selling small items and working in construction and technology—to fund my education. These early experiences instilled in me a resilience and determination that empowered me to pursue the American dream many of us hold dear.

The Dream of a Better Future

Inspired by my brother's stories and movies about opportunities in the United States, I entered the US DV lottery in grade 11 and won on my first attempt. After graduating High school, I came to the US alone in April 2018, to Minnesota, Coon Rapids; I started my first job in the US in MN, Anoka, as a machine operator within two weeks of arrival.

Pursuing Education

I started college at Minneapolis Community and Technical College (MCTC) in 2019, working two jobs to support myself and repay the loan my family had taken for my Visa process. My first class, College English Composition, was particularly challenging due to my limited proficiency in English. However, with the assistance of my professor and diligent effort to enhance my writing skills, I successfully finished the course.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, I transferred to Minnesota State University, Mankato, to attend the nursing program for 2021 classes. However, my work as a Patient Care Assistant at the Mayo Clinic Health System influenced my career goals. Seeing the limitations of the nursing role as a PCA, I sought a position that would allow me to harness my creativity and problem-solving skills. I then transferred to the University of Minnesota Rochester for pre-medical studies and finally graduated with a bachelor's in health sciences at the end of 2023.

Driven by Family and Purpose

My journey has been marked by resilience and a relentless pursuit of better opportunities. From humble beginnings in Ethiopia to achieving my educational goals in the US, I have been driven by the sacrifices and love of my family. Their support of my decision and my determination to honor their sacrifices have guided me through every challenge, shaping me into a determined and compassionate individual ready to make a difference in the world.

The Challenge of Facing an Unknown Force

The past few years have been incredibly challenging, marked by significant turmoil back home, including civil wars. Tragically, my brother was shot, and I lost many of my childhood friends. In 2022, I also lost my nephew, likely due to an aneurysm—a condition that remains undiagnosed due to inadequate medical technology and healthcare providers in the area. These losses have been compounded by the earlier loss of my older brother at age 22 due to malaria and asthma complications when I was just 14. My middle brother, who began smoking at age 20, fell into depression after our older brother's death. In 2023, I lost my middle older brother and a friend of mine who has a bright future to do amazing things, too; I felt like I was at war with some unknown force that targeted me by taking my family and my loved ones away from me.

Growing up in Ethiopia, the lack of healthcare access deeply impacted me. I vividly remember the day my brother's heart stopped, and we were helpless until the medical provider arrived and administered an adrenaline injection, and his heartbeat returned. That moment ingrained in me the critical need for accessible healthcare and education and sparked my desire to become a healthcare educator and provider to bring hope to those in need from that day.

During those challenging times, I experienced profound sadness, knowing I couldn’t change the situation. Despite this, I always carry the memories of my brothers. I starve to make a difference, which drives my ambition to go to medical school. I want to help others, save lives, and prevent others from experiencing the pain and loss I have gone through.

Every experience has influenced my path, from my parents' sacrifices to adapting to a new life in the U.S. Looking ahead, I'm committed to making a positive impact and helping those in need. This is just the start of my journey.

Thank you to all who inspired, guided, mentored, and supported me in my journey to higher education.