When I came to the United States as a thirteen year old Russian orphan to be adopted, I never imagined succeeding professionally or personally. I did not see myself graduating from high school, let alone Iowa State University. I have since achieved both of these goals. I also did not imagine working for a great company. Working at John Deere Financial has opened many doors for me professionally, and has helped me to develop in my personal life. The many challenges I have faced throughout my life have made me stronger, more compassionate towards others, and, above all, more determined to achieve my goals. In Russia I lived in Petrozavodsk, a city of about a quarter of a million people. The transition to Earlham, Iowa—a small town with a population of about a thousand—meant I had to learn English quickly in order to fit in as a middle schooler. Learning English was the easiest part of being a teenager in a whole new country. While attending Earlham Community Schools, I maintained standing on the A Honor Roll while working after school, and was also active in clubs and sports. These first few years in America taught me the art of adaptation, as well as the ability to multitask and prioritize. After high school, I knew the only path for me to continue excelling
Networking is not easy, but I have managed to join and participate in Young Professionals Connection, which has given me more confidence to interact with others in the professional world. I have also had the chance to put my elementary education knowledge to use with Everybody Wins! Iowa, mentoring children to help ensure they have a bright future. One of the courses that I am looking forward to taking through Drake University is Project Management, which will allow me to connect with local business and nonprofit leaders in order to further my community