From the president
Ashbiya Giri will graduate with a major in economics in May 2025, from SUNY Buffalo State University. An international student from Nepal, Ashbiya chose the economics major in part because of her interest in the global lens the economics coursework provides. The Newman Fellowship will provide her with a context to think more deeply about how she can apply her economics degree to improve her community. During her time at Buffalo State, Ashbiya has taken advantage of several opportunities to serve the campus and community while developing her leadership skills. As a Spring 2024 Dr. Katherine Conway-Turner Civic and Community Engagement Office intern, Ashbiya supports the TAX Assistant Program (TAP). She has served as a Resident Assistant, a Student Assistant at the Butler Library, and a Bengal Experience and Transition (BEAT) Team Member. In the BEAT role, she performed with the Anne Frank Project to encourage students to find their ‘why’ and develop their own stories. She has also participated in Bengals Dare to Care Day and volunteered at Best Self Behavioral Health through a program organized by the Newman Center. Ashbiya is an outstanding representative of SUNY Buffalo State’s civic and community engagement efforts.
Personal Statement
As a member of the Lion's Club, which aims to strengthen communities and support those in need, I had my first experience of giving back to the community in high school. I remember distributing school supplies to children who lacked the necessary resources due to poverty, even though the school was built. This experience made me realize how authorities do not always consider everything and work towards improving the education system, especially in my country, Nepal. Since then, I have been participating in various community service projects, and those experiences have made me understand that it's not just about helping others but more about learning and growing together. I learned that working towards a shared purpose in a supportive environment fosters a sense of community, where everyone involved can grow and learn from each other. Currently, I am involved with the Civic and Community Engagement Office on campus, which encourages and supports individuals to actively address social injustices and advocate for systemic change through civic engagement, volunteering, and community-engaged learning courses.