Wintana Tadesse
San Diego,CA
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
Work History
Fellow
University of San Diego
San Diego, California
08.2025 - Current
- I serve with BIGI at USD through College Corps, BiGI is a program dedicated to improving the educational experiences and outcomes of Black students by addressing disproportionality and creating supportive learning environments. I meet with our middle school participants once a month, building relationships and guiding activities that support their growth and engagement, while spending the rest of my time in the office preparing for those sessions and continuously improving the program.
Founder/Owner
HairByWinta
08.2020 - Current
- Founder and operating a successful hair styling business specializing in braiding and custom hair designs for over 30 clients. Managing all aspects of operations, including finances, inventory, scheduling, and client consultations.
Undergraduate Researcher
Catalyst Research First
08.2025 - 08.2025
- Selected for Catalyst Research First, where I conducted life sciences research on damselflies to study how climate change affects their feeding behavior alongside a faculty mentor. I gained early undergraduate research experience, collaborated with a diverse peer team.
- A competitive immersion program for first-generation and transfer students
President/Founder
01.2026
- New organization starting spring 2026 semester, dedicated to supporting Black women on the pre-health track through empowerment, community-building, and increased visibility. Led efforts to uplift members by fostering connection, sharing resources, and addressing the unique challenges and experiences of Black women pursuing careers in health.
Intern
University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus
- Conducted hands-on training in biomedical research using model organisms including Drosophila, mice, and cell cultures. Acquired sterile cell culture techniques and fundamental laboratory skills such as pipetting, microscopy, solution preparation, and microdissection. Built clinical skills in imaging, patient interaction, and diagnostic interpretation. Collaborated and communicated with a range of professionals including physicians, professors, and nursing staff.
Member
East African Student Association
- Actively engaged member of the East African Student Association, consistently attending general board meetings and contributing to club discussions and initiatives. Participated in cultural events, community-building activities, and campus programs to support and promote East African student representation.
Volunteer
Childrens Hospital
- Once a week, I volunteered at the hospital as a float by delivering packages, facilitating craft parties, distributing food to families, and keeping company with patients when needed.
Volunteer
Therapies for Hope
- Spent spring break with children who have developmental disabilities in underserved communities. Assisting in helping build their social skills. Also spent quality time with their siblings to build connections.
Education
Undergraduate - Pre-Professional in Biology
University of San Diego
San Diego, California05.2029
High School Diploma -
Regis Jesuit High School
Aurora, Colorado05-2025
Skills
- Leadership
- Communication
- Problem-Solving
- Time Management
- Active Listening
Languages
- Ahmaric
- English, Proficient
- Ahmaric, Advanced
Timeline
President/Founder
01.2026
Fellow
University of San Diego
08.2025 - Current
Undergraduate Researcher
Catalyst Research First
08.2025 - 08.2025
Founder/Owner
HairByWinta
08.2020 - Current
Intern
University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus
Member
East African Student Association
Volunteer
Childrens Hospital
Volunteer
Therapies for Hope
Undergraduate - Pre-Professional in Biology
University of San Diego
High School Diploma -
Regis Jesuit High School