Merry Yirga
Assistant Director of Admissions for Community Partnerships
Counselor for: HHS, Rocktown, Turner Ashby; Central/Southeastern/
Hometown: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Hobbies: Singing, making/writing/listening to music, acting, going to the theater, writing poetry, cooking, spending time with friends, playing video games
Education: 91¶ÌÊÓƵ ‘23, BA in Liberal Arts; Minored in Psychology, Sociology, Peacebuilding
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Contact info: 540-432-4130, merry.yirga@emu.edu
Why I came to 91¶ÌÊÓƵ
While visiting 91¶ÌÊÓƵ as a senior in high school, I was initially drawn to the beauty and small size of the campus. During my visit, I also noticed that 91¶ÌÊÓƵ seemed to strongly emphasize the importance of community, which I later would get to experience first-hand. I had also heard good things about the school from 91¶ÌÊÓƵ students who had gone to my high school. In my gut I knew 91¶ÌÊÓƵ would be the right place for me, and I was right.
Why I love 91¶ÌÊÓƵ
I love 91¶ÌÊÓƵ because no matter who you are, where you’re from or what your background is, you will always have someone who is rooting for you. Community is not a loosely used term at 91¶ÌÊÓƵ. It is a practice that 91¶ÌÊÓƵ as an institution is committed to continuously developing. People actively care for each other at 91¶ÌÊÓƵ; it’s woven into the culture. This culture of being committed to the community really shaped my 91¶ÌÊÓƵ experience and I am so grateful for it.
Anything else you should know about me?
I am a very passionate person and enjoy having conversations with other passionate people! Whether it’s deep conversations on social justice and peacebuilding, or more lighthearted topics like what Beyonce album is the best one, I am more than happy to engage in such discussions!
