Habesha Voices Series

Overview

The Habesha Voices Series was a digital outreach initiative designed to address common questions Eritrean and Ethiopian students have about the college process, identity, and belonging in higher education.

We collected frequently asked questions directly from students and shared responses from Eritrean and Ethiopian undergraduates at top universities, medical students, and post-graduate professionals. The goal was to provide honest, culturally grounded insight that students rarely receive through formal school systems.

The problem

Many first-generation and immigrant students lack access to mentors who understand both the college system and their cultural context. This leaves students relying on fragmented or secondhand information, often leading to unnecessary confusion and self-doubt.

What we did

• Collected commonly asked questions from students
• Shared responses from Eritrean and Ethiopian students across higher education pathways
• Distributed content in an accessible, student-facing format

Impact

• Reached a wide audience of students seeking guidance
• Addressed recurring questions about applications, belonging, and identity
• Helped normalize uncertainty and reduce isolation among first-gen students