For Fiker Shimels, engagement, leadership, and connection are everything.
The junior, a double major in accounting and data science, serves as president of DePaul’s chapter of NABA, the National Association of Black Accountants. She is also the Vice President of Socials for Beta Alpha Psi, an honors organization for accounting, finance, and information services students.
Alongside her leadership roles, mentorship is a core value for Shimels. Hailing from Ethiopia, she works closely with fellow international students as a peer mentor with International Student Services. She also mentors incoming freshmen in accounting as part of the Strobel Honors Program.
Alongside her fellow scholarship winners, Shimels visited CME Group’s Chicago headquarters earlier this August. The highlight of the visit: making connections.
“It was incredibly enriching to connect with like-minded individuals who share similar goals and aspirations,” she reflected. "This experience has highlighted the importance of community, professional growth, and the value of staying connected with peers as I navigate my career path.”
As she looks ahead along that path, Shimels has her sights set on the intersection of two in-demand fields: accounting and data science. “Nuance and innovation,” are at the core of the ethos that guides her.
“My goal is to use my expertise to make a meaningful impact, both in the industry and by giving back to the community that has supported and shaped me,” she said.
DePaul has been a big part of that community. So too has been Shimels’ faith, supported and bolstered by DePaul’s Vincentian tradition.
“One of my favorite St. Vincent quotes is, ‘a person of prayer is capable of everything,’” she said. “That has been one of the main reasons I am successful.”
When asked about her advice for students who are considering the CME Group Foundation Scholarship and similar opportunities, Shimels’ response echoed her own dedication to connection, engagement, and leadership.
“Be authentic and intentional in your journey,” she wrote. “Take the time to reflect on your passions, goals, and the impact you want to make in your community. Highlight your unique experiences and how they have shaped your aspirations. Stay engaged—get involved in activities that genuinely interest you, and seek out leadership and mentorship opportunities.
“Lastly, don't be afraid to reach out for guidance and support; building strong relationships can open doors to opportunities you might not have imagined.”
This story is part of a series on four DePaul students who earned a prestigious, $20,000 scholarship from the CME Group Foundation. Read the other scholars' stories here.