Didier Randrianandrasana
Quick Facts
Age: 22
Major: Economics
Place of birth: Madagascar
Notable: International student
Languages: Malagasy, French and German
Transfer Institution: Associate of Arts Pre-Business DTA, Shoreline College
“Civility is the awareness and the application of the idea that society on a global level needs to foster the habits of caring, empathizing, and sacrificing one’s own comfort in the expectation of providing greater harmony to the human social atmosphere.”
Service & Work:
French and English tutor in rural Madagascar, CFP ESAC
French language International Student Ambassador + Honors
Awards & Honors:
Honors Program at SCC
Dean's list - AA-DTA, Shoreline Community College
Didier’s Story
Early Life and Background:
My name is Didier Philippe RANDRIANANDRASANA. I was born in October 2001 in Antananarivo, Madagascar. Growing up, I was part of a very diverse community influenced by French, Malagasy, and Chinese cultures. My childhood was significantly shaped by the political environment in which I was raised, often requiring me to forgo many precious moments as my father traveled extensively around the island for work. Consequently, I spent much of my time at home with my babysitter and my mother, who, though not very talkative, was always caring and loving. Despite not coming from a wealthy background, my parents prioritized providing the best education they could afford for me and my siblings.
Cherished Memories:
One of the most important parts of my life that I cherish is the summer vacations I spent in the South of Madagascar at my grandparents' place. Every summer, my grandma would ride the bus for 16 hours to bring me back to their home so we could spend time together. My grandpa, though a man of few words, was my favorite person then and still is today. I would accompany him everywhere he went, and even had my own chair next to him at the grocery store he owned.
Evenings were particularly special, as we would return home to find my grandma had prepared an entire table full of food. After dinner, my grandpa would let me choose a movie to watch without ever arguing about my choices. I remember watching "The Lion King" with him six times in a row! His actions spoke volumes about his love for me, as he always prioritized peaceful solutions in conflicts and never got mad at me personally.
Lessons and Legacy:
The summer of 2013 was a turning point when my grandpa passed away. It was then that I truly realized what a treasure he was and the invaluable lesson he left me: to genuinely care for others. It took many years to recover from his loss, but the pain was worth it for the unspoken life lessons he taught me. His legacy of love and kindness has profoundly impacted me, teaching me the beauty of giving love selflessly.
Reflection:
After a bad day in primary school, my grandpa used to take me out and buy me some ice cream, a simple act that always brightened my spirits. His quiet, steadfast love continues to inspire me every day, reminding me of the importance of caring for others and the impact of small, thoughtful actions.
Mission:
Growing up on the Island of Madagascar, I have been deeply impacted by the post-colonial era and the ongoing political and economic crises my country has faced. These experiences have led me to conclude that unparalleled civic education will be the foundation of my interactions with others.
Witnessing the pervasive misery in my society has transformed my relationship with the field of Economics. Initially intimidated by the subject, I have developed a passion for its potential to positively impact my community and society at large.
Goals:
Currently, I am enrolled in a managerial economics program at Seattle University, with plans to minor in Applied Mathematics. My goal is to deepen my understanding of economics and learn from the best in the world. I intend to pursue my education until I achieve a PhD, further equipping myself with the knowledge and skills needed to make a significant impact. In the future, I aim to give back to my community by serving and applying my knowledge to improve their lives.
