Hello there! My name is Barbara Elizabeth Pimentel, and I am currently a junior at the University of Pittsburgh, where I am pursuing a major in Global Management. In addition to my major, I am also minoring in Korean and working towards a Leadership & Ethics certificate. My academic journey is driven by a passion for understanding the complexities of global business and the ethical considerations that come with the majority of leadership roles.
I was born in 2003 on the tropical island of San Juan, Puerto Rico, which is a territory of the United States. I am proud to be Puerto Rican, and I would like to share a little history on how Puerto Rico became a U.S. Territory. Puerto Rico became a U.S. territory as a result of the Treaty of Paris, which was signed on December 10th, 1898. The Treaty of Paris officially ended the four-month Spanish-American War and dictated that Spain cede the island to the U.S. This also marked the end of four hundred years of Spanish colonialism and the rise of U.S. imperialism and dominance in the Americas. As a territory of the U.S. Puerto Ricans were granted U.S. citizenship by birth in 1917 BUT they are not allowed to vote in presidential elections. Since 1952, Puerto Rico has been a commonwealth of the U.S. which enabled the island to elect its own governor.
I moved to the United States in 2007. Since then, I have had the opportunity to live in various cities across the country, including Reading, PA; Providence, RI; Detroit, MI; and now, Pittsburgh, PA. Each of these places has contributed to my growth and shaped my perspective in unique ways. My decision to participate in this program stems from a deep curiosity about the inner workings of non-profit organizations. I am particularly interested in how these organizations manage their business operations behind the scenes. Understanding the financial, strategic, and operational aspects of non-profits is crucial for me, as these organizations play a vital role in addressing social issues and improving communities.
One of my primary goals in this program is to reconnect with my cultural roots and gain a deeper understanding of how things function back home in Puerto Rico. I am eager to explore the cultural, economic, and social dynamics of my homeland and see how they intersect with the global business landscape. This knowledge will not only enrich my personal identity but also enhance my professional capabilities in a global context. I am excited about the opportunity to collaborate with a partner on a meaningful project. Working together to create tangible results that can positively impact lives is something I am passionate about. Hands-on experience and teamwork are essential for personal and professional growth. Through this program, I hope to develop practical skills, build lasting relationships, and contribute to projects that make a real difference in people’s lives.
Living in different cities has taught me the importance of adaptability and resilience. Each move brought new challenges and opportunities, and I have learned to navigate diverse environments with an open mind and a positive attitude. I am thankful to have the opportunity to participate in this program and I will give it my all!
