Liliyan Ibrahim

Where are you from? I’m from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Why did you choose to attend Georgia College? The main reason is the culture. Georgia College has great interaction with the professors and students. It’s not too big or too small. It’s the perfect place to come and find yourself. You don’t get so overwhelmed with so many people. It also allows you to grow at your own pace. As an international student, changing countries is a such a major shift. And having that small, close-knit community to connect with is a big factor. It also has a good business program. 

What’s your major? Marketing

Why did you choose to major in marketing? When I first came to Georgia College, I was a management major. But during my sophomore year, I realized there’s a lot of creativity and flexibility with marketing. And, I am a very creative person, so I think marketing really translates to my future career.

Which professor made a big impact on you and why? My Business Professor, Chuck Ryan, changed the way we learned. I think sometimes we lose focus on learning the material, because we’re so fixated on getting good grades. He allowed us to focus on the material and then he brought back the drive to learn something new, because he challenged us in ways we’ve never been. He made the experience so much better and easier for me to learn. I’m one that learns by understanding, not memorizing. So, the way he went into detail with the material allowed me to use this information and apply it to so many things. Now, I can actually apply what I’ve learned to so many different purposes. That made a big impact on the way I view learning now.

What organizations were you a part of at Georgia College? I was part of the Seek Refuge Club, International Club, Project Movement Club, French Club, Women’s Club and ADHD Club. I try to be as involved as possible to get new perspectives from different people. Belonging to a variety of clubs allowed me to see things in different ways. So many diverse people contributed a lot to who I am now, because I’ve learned from people who are from different places.

What do you hope to do when you graduate? For the first one to two years, I would like to work in a fashion firm or do social media with a digital marketing firm. I’d like to learn a skill set I’m going to get from working in the fashion industry. Ultimately, I want to be self-employed and have my own fashion firm.

Why is this important to you? When I grew up, there weren't a lot of modest fashions available. I don’t think many companies are inclusive and considerate about different fashion preferences. Having the ability to provide that option will give those who want modest looks the opportunity to express their creativity through fashion. Because I had to find creative ways to what is available to accommodate the fashion trends with my own preference. It’s important for me to give that opportunity to others that I didn’t have when I was growing up.