What does it take to go from immigrating to the United States at age eight to leading one of Los Angeles' most diverse community colleges?

For Dr. Amanuel Gebru, President of Los Angeles City College (LACC), the journey has been shaped by education, mentorship, opportunity, and a deep commitment to creating pathways for others.

As a first-generation college student and member of the international community, Dr. Gebru brings a personal understanding of the challenges many students face as they navigate higher education and build a future in a new environment.

His career in higher education has focused on creating opportunities for students, advancing international education, mentoring future leaders, and advocating for underrepresented student populations.

In this episode of International Student Stories, host Soleil Perrin sits down with Dr. Gebru to explore his personal journey and the lessons that have shaped his approach to education and leadership.

1. Mentorship Can Change the Trajectory of a Student's Life

Mentorship has been a defining part of Dr. Gebru's journey—and it has become an important part of his work in higher education.

Having navigated college as a first-generation student, he understands the importance of having people who can provide guidance, share knowledge, and help students recognize opportunities.

Today, Dr. Gebru remains committed to mentorship and knowledge-sharing, empowering students and others to reach their fullest potential.

His experience demonstrates that sometimes, having someone who believes in your potential can make a lasting difference.

2. Where You Start Doesn't Define Where You Can Go

Dr. Gebru immigrated to the United States at the age of eight and later became a first-generation college student.

His journey from those early experiences to becoming a college president reflects the transformative possibilities of education.

Rather than allowing circumstances to define what is possible, Dr. Gebru has built a career around expanding access and opportunity for others.

His story is a powerful reminder that a student's starting point does not have to determine their destination.

3. Community Colleges Are Powerful Pathways to Opportunity

Dr. Gebru believes strongly in the role of education as a pathway to economic and social mobility.

That perspective is especially significant within the community college system, where students from diverse backgrounds can find opportunities to pursue their educational and career goals.

As President of Los Angeles City College, Dr. Gebru brings this commitment to a campus serving one of the nation's most diverse communities.

His leadership emphasizes the importance of making higher education accessible, inclusive, and responsive to the communities it serves.

4. Belonging and Inclusion Matter

For students navigating a new country, culture, or educational system, feeling welcomed and supported can be an important part of the college experience.

Dr. Gebru's own experience as an immigrant and first-generation college student informs his commitment to inclusivity and equity in education.

His advocacy extends to underrepresented student populations, including African American males, as he works to expand opportunities and ensure that students from diverse backgrounds have pathways to success.

At LACC, this commitment is reflected in the college's vibrant and diverse community, including its international student population.

5. Education Can Create Impact Beyond Borders

Dr. Gebru's commitment to education and equity extends well beyond Los Angeles.

His work in international education focuses on creating experiences that help students and mentors understand their role in the world. He has also played an instrumental leadership role in acquiring 10.3 acres of land to develop a Racial Trauma, Wellness, and Healing Center in Ghana and serves on the committee for the All-African Diaspora Summit.

These efforts reflect a broader vision of education—one that connects communities, encourages global understanding, and creates opportunities that extend beyond national borders.

The Power of Opportunity

Dr. Amanuel Gebru's journey is ultimately a story about the transformative power of education and the people who help make opportunity possible.

From immigrating to the United States as a child to navigating college as a first-generation student, becoming a higher education leader, advocating for underrepresented students, and advancing international education, his career reflects a commitment to creating pathways for others.

For international students, educators, mentors, and anyone who believes in the power of opportunity, his story offers an important reminder:

Where you begin does not define where you can go.

Listen to this episode of International Student Stories with Dr. Amanuel Gebru to hear more about his journey, his perspective on mentorship and opportunity, and his vision for a more inclusive and globally connected future in higher education.

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