Elias Dejene
Blacksburg,VA
Summary
Motivated Virginia Tech Stamps Scholar majoring in FinTech, with a strong mix of focus, adaptability, and people skills. Experienced in leadership, collaboration, and research through internships and community work. Able to balance attention to detail with the social awareness needed to connect and lead effectively. Passionate about growth, innovation, and creating meaningful impact in academic and professional settings.
Overview
3
3
years of professional experience
Work History
Research Intern
National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)
Gaithersburg, MD
09.2024 - 05.2025
- Conducted data-driven research under federal mentorship to advance technology standardization initiatives.
- Assisted in coding and analysis tasks that supported ongoing laboratory projects and reports.
Presidential Intern
Minority Scholars Program
06.2024 - 05.2025
- Organized and led professional development sessions for teachers on inclusivity and racial bias, resulting in actionable policy changes.
- Collaborated with Montgomery County Public Schools leadership, including the superintendent, to advocate for equity-focused education reform.
- Delivered keynote speech at the 2024 Minority Scholars Retreat to thousands of students, educators, and community leaders.
Co-Founder
SafeWinters
11.2022 - 05.2025
- Founded a nonprofit initiative that collected and donated over 200 coats to people experiencing homelessness across Montgomery County.
- Coordinated volunteer drives, managed partnerships, and oversaw community outreach campaigns.
Teacher Assistant
Panda Programmer
09.2024 - 05.2025
- Taught coding fundamentals to children using Python and Scratch, fostering early interest in computer science.
- Designed engaging activities to simplify technical concepts for students aged 7–13.
Education
Stamps Scholar -
Virginia Tech
Blacksburg, Virginia10.2025
Skills
- Python
- Data analysis
- MATLAB
- Public speaking
- Leadership
- Team collaboration
- Java
Awards
Stamps Scholarship, Full-ride merit scholarship for academic excellence and leadership potential.
Hobbies and Interests
- FinTech
- Artificial Intelligence
- Daytrading
- Social Justice
- Basketball
- Music
University Involvement
NAACP at Virginia Tech, Member
09/01/25 - Present
Engage in advocacy discussions and community dialogues extending prior work from the Minority Scholars Program. Collaborate with members to promote social equity, leadership development, and civic engagement on campus.
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Research Intern
National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)
09.2024 - 05.2025
Teacher Assistant
Panda Programmer
09.2024 - 05.2025
Presidential Intern
Minority Scholars Program
06.2024 - 05.2025
Co-Founder
SafeWinters
11.2022 - 05.2025
Stamps Scholar -
Virginia Tech