Two Languages, Two Personalities?
Mariam Abeje grew up immersed in two languages and cultures, living in the United States and Ethiopia and speaking both English and Amharic. She has observed that as she uses both languages, it is not just the way she speaks that changes, but that her whole personality feels different. What’s more, from talking to family and friends, she has learned that the same experience might be common to others who are bilingual. Mariam will share her own story and insights she has gained from her cultural confluence.
About Mariam
Mariam Abeje is an Austin College senior from Murphy, Texas. She is majoring in Healthcare Administration with a minor in Chemistry, and will pursue a career in medicine. At Austin College, she is involved in Alpha Phi Omega national service fraternity; Students Today, Alumni Tomorrow; and the Pre-Health Society; and is an Academic Skills Center peer tutor. Beyond Austin College, Mariam works with MarNat: One Child at a Time, an organization she and her family founded to provide school uniforms, shoes, backpacks, and school supplies for underprivileged children in Ethiopia. She is passionate about helping underserved communities and bringing opportunities to people who can help make a difference in those communities.