Astride Mukabagula BS '18, Transfer

Before I answer this question I would like to give a brief explanation about my background. I come from many different places and I have lived in several countries where I was given the opportunity to learn multiple languages and gain different cultural perspectives. When I came to America, it was not hard to adopt to this great culture. The history of the United States is influenced by a variety of different cultures, so I feel very lucky to be living in this diverse nation. I believe we are stronger as one and we can accomplish our goals and achieve almost anything if we work together.

I chose to transfer to UCCS because I believe in education, and that is why I decided to put myself in school. I started at Pikes Community College because it was cheaper and I could get help when needed. In addition, Pikes Peak Community College had students I could relate to, which gave a sense of belonging. Later, I chose UCCS for the same reasons I chose to attend PPCC. UCCS has an excellent accounting program that offered quality resources to succeed, but I also wanted attend a school where I could be successful and have opportunities to grow in my chosen field. UCCS provided that environment for me.

When I was 15 years old, I used to own my own jewelry boutique. I enjoyed being exposed to the freedom of making my own business decisions without anyone else's help. I loved the interaction that I had with people while running my business. It was exciting to think about possible investing approaches and I loved seeing my business grow. Furthermore, my business was able to provide financial support for my family.

I have an entrepreneurial mindset and I chose accounting with the hope that one day it will further my goals of owning my own accounting firm or business. Accounting is a really marketable degree and I can use it almost anywhere - and it pays well.

I love the UCCS College of Business program because it has great resources and the faculty and staff truly help and support their students. Since I started school at UCCS, I have had great teachers who care about my success. They have helped me network, find new opportunities and have invested extra time in my education and future goals. I am very thankful our business professors. They truly care.

I study for fun but I will go to the movies with my friends when I have the time.

I love Colorado because of its mountains and it has beautiful views. I also love the weather.

I want to have own my business so that I can help my family and support people that need help. I want to help my own family achieve a higher level of education because it makes me happy knowing that I can help reshape my family's history. I also would like to start a non-profit to help foster children by supporting their transition out of the system and into independent living.

UCCS is helping me receive my undergraduate degree. UCCS is also helping me prepare for the workplace through a variety of networking activities and career resources.

UCCS is a great school that has all the resources to help you achieve your goals.