Enrollment Coordinator
CIEE: Council on International Educational Exchange
My name is Awa Dembélé, and I am a first-generation college student from Harlem, New York. One of the most transformative experiences of my college journey was studying abroad in the Czech Republic. It was an incredible time in my life, filled with adventures as I traveled to eight other European countries, reconnected with family and friends, and forged lifelong friendships. Despite the joy and fulfillment I found while abroad, it also opened my eyes to the lack of representation in study abroad programs. As one of the few Black individuals in my program and often the only Black woman in the room, I couldn't help but feel a sense of isolation. I realized that more Black students should have access to such enriching opportunities. Upon returning home, I felt a calling to work in higher education, inspiring and supporting Black students to pursue their dreams and access opportunities like study abroad. My journey has fueled my passion for equity and inclusion in study abroad