Born in February 2008 in a small village in the Southern Nations, Nationalities, and People’s Region of Ethiopia, Hana Taylor Schlitz's story begins amidst the stark realities of a global pandemic, high infant mortality rates, and personal health challenges. Her very first months of life were marked by the loss of her mother and her own battle with tuberculosis, setting the stage for a narrative of resilience and hope that has defined her path.

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Despite these initial hardships, Hana’s life took a transformative turn with her adoption by an American family. Moving to the United States, she was introduced to a world of opportunities that would shape her future. From a young age, Hana displayed an insatiable curiosity and a remarkable capacity for adaptability and resilience, qualities that would become the cornerstone of her academic and personal development.

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At just 16 years old, Hana graduated from Texas Woman's University with honors, becoming the youngest graduate in the institution’s history—a record previously held by her sister, Haley. This remarkable achievement is not only a testament to her intellectual prowess but also to her extraordinary dedication and perseverance. Her choice to major in Sociology stems from a deep-seated desire to understand and address the social structures and cultural norms that significantly impact individual and collective lives.

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Hana’s academic interests are deeply intertwined with her personal experiences as an international adoptee from Ethiopia. She is driven by a commitment to explore themes of inequality, migration, and identity formation, drawing on her unique vantage point to contribute valuable insights into these complex issues. Her journey through Tarrant County Community College to Texas Woman's University has been marked by unconventional yet enriching experiences, shaping her academic and personal growth.

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As she begins her Master's Degree program in Public Leadership with a focus on Emergency Services Administration at the University of North Texas Dallas, Hana is drawn to issues facing historically underserved communities, with a particular focus on international adoption and the unique challenges encountered by adoptees. Her future research aims to delve into the phenomenon of identity, belonging, and cultural integration among adoptees, exploring the role of technology in bridging gaps between dispersed communities.

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Hana Taylor Schlitz's story is one of overcoming adversity through resilience, hope, and the transformative power of education. Her pursuit of a deeper understanding of societal dynamics and her commitment to fostering social change reflect her profound dedication to making a meaningful impact in the world. As she embarks on her next academic endeavor, Hana continues to be a beacon of inspiration for all who face challenges, reminding us that with determination and support, it is possible to achieve greatness.