Yodahe Kebede is an Economics (BS) student at Minnesota State University, graduating in 2026, with minors in Mathematics and International Relations. He is pursuing a career in developmental economics and policy analysis, backed by strong quantitative research on sustainable growth strategies in emerging markets. A recipient of the E. Dale Peterson Economics Scholarship and member of the university’s Honours Program, Yodahe has built a solid foundation in data-driven policy research using SPSS, STATA, and R.

His most impactful academic work was leading research under Dr. Elizabeth Sandell on ‘Cultural Learning Strategies in Ethiopia and the United States.’ He helped design interview frameworks to explore how Ethiopian students manage cognitive dissonance in US education systems. His findings offered actionable strategies for cross-cultural adaptability in higher education, presented at the MNSU Undergraduate Research Symposium, UC–Long Beach’s National Conference on Undergraduate Research, and the 17th Global Studies Conference.

Beyond academics, Yodahe serves as Vice President of the UN & International Relations Club, where he develops diplomatic negotiation simulations, and as a Senator for the College of Humanities and Social Sciences. He also trains in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Muay Thai, reflecting his commitment to discipline and holistic personal growth.