Previous Scholarship Recipients

Shalom Kiflemariam - 2025 Recipient

1. What are you currently doing?

I just finished my undergraduate degree, and will be starting grad school this summer.

2. What has been a recent accomplishment you’re proud of?

My recent accomplishment was that I was able to get my grad school paid off, and I bought my first car.

3. How did the scholarship support or impact your journey?

The scholarship really lightened my financial burden. I was able to purchase a car and explore a lot of career avenues. I was also able to focus on my career and school instead of making ends meet. Without a doubt this scholarship alleviated a lot of stress out of my life.

4. Any advice you’d share with future scholarship recipients?

My advice would be keep going and stay the course. I would also say trust the process and become consistent in your work; everything will follow. Leverage every connection, because it is about who you know and who knows you.

Leon Pham - 2023/2024 Recipient

1. What are you currently doing?

I recently graduated from Southern Methodist University in December 2024. Next week, I am actually moving to San Francisco to start my new role as a Customer Growth Associate at Google! Outside of work, I am also serving as a Growth and Marketing Volunteer for a non-profit called Asian American Dream.

2. What has been a recent accomplishment you’re proud of?

Securing my upcoming full-time role at Google has definitely been a massive milestone. Beyond my career, I am really proud of the community-building work I have been able to do over the last couple of years, from organizing a Google-sponsored diversity event called "Dare to Dream" during my time at SMU to my current volunteer work helping scale the Asian American Dream organization.

3. How did the scholarship support or impact your journey?

The DFW-ABA scholarship was instrumental in relieving the financial pressure of completing my degree at SMU. Having that support allowed me to focus heavily on my academics, invest my time into campus leadership and volunteer roles, and ultimately navigate the rigorous recruiting process that led to my career in tech. I am incredibly grateful for the peace of mind it provided.

4. Any advice you’d share with future scholarship recipients?

Never underestimate the power of building genuine relationships. Whether you are navigating the recruiting process or just trying to find your footing, so much of it comes down to getting in front of the right people and having real conversations. Stay authentic, don't be afraid to reach out when you need guidance, and always look for ways to pay it forward to the next generation of students.

Jessica Rodriguez - 2023/2025 Recipient

1. What are you currently doing?

Currently attending the University of North Texas.

2. What has been a recent accomplishment you’re proud of?

I passed REG & I am graduating with my Masters of Science in Accounting.

3. How did the scholarship support or impact your journey?

I was able to concentrate on my studies this semester as I prepared for graduation and I was able to focus on my CPA exam.

4. Any advice you’d share with future scholarship recipients?

Network, don’t be shy and speak to everybody and make genuine connections.

Nonhle Mthethwa - 2025 Recipient

1. What are you currently doing?

I am entering my final semester this fall before starting graduate school.

2. What has been a recent accomplishment you’re proud of?

I completed one of the toughest semesters of my college career. I took six upper-level classes, and I am very proud that I successfully completed them. I earned five A’s and one B this semester.

3. How did the scholarship support or impact your journey?

It allowed me to focus more on my classes and perform well academically, especially during one of the most challenging semesters of my college career. Taking six upper-level courses required a great deal of time and dedication, and the scholarship eased some of the financial stress that could have distracted me from my studies. The scholarship also motivated me to continue working hard as I prepare for my final semester before graduate school.

4. Any advice you’d share with future scholarship recipients?

My advice to future scholarship recipients is to stay focused, work hard, and make the most of every opportunity. Scholarships are not only financial support, but also a reminder that others believe in your potential. Use that encouragement to keep pushing forward, even during challenging times, and never be afraid to ask for help when you need it.