Melisa

I was born in Albania just as the communist regime collapsed, during a time of economic unrest and armed rebellion. I witnessed severe social inequalities that impressed on me how social disparities directly impede human potential by limiting access to educational opportunities, hindering profitable careers, and crippling well being. When I was ten years old, my family and I immigrated to the United States where we faced financial and social obstacles as part of an ethnic immigrant minority group with little support. These difficulties drove me to work hard and to pursue my academic and professional aspirations with focused determination, powered by a strong desire to affect social change.

These early experiences enabled me to find my own strength and voice at a young age. This self-knowledge empowers me today as a junior at Barnard College where I continually strive to challenge myself. I am a double major in Political Science and Economics with a concentration in International Finance. I am a member of the Columbia University Parliamentary Debate team, an intern at the World Policy Institute, and an Athena Women’s Leadership Scholar; I enjoy thinking on my feet. I am passionate about policy-making and understanding critical global economic and sociopolitical issues.

I recognize my responsibility to develop my potential and aspire to do this each day, to bring hope to my parents and inspire others who face similar obstacles. To achieve these goals, I intend to utilize the cosmopolitan ecosystem of New York City to meet and learn from professionals who have excelled in my field. With their advice and support, I hope to gain the knowledge and expertise that will enable me to develop innovative solutions to challenging global economic and social issues. Ultimately, I hope to lead a life as an inspiring figure whose professional and personal endeavors have a positive impact on a global scale.