Isidora Draskovic, '15
Last month Westhampton College and the University of Richmond Alumni Association sponsored the annual Senior Celebration Night in anticipation of seniors’ approaching graduation while taking the opportunity to award several women for their contributions to the University. Isidora Draskovic, ’15, a German studies and accounting major with a concentration in finance, received the Leslie Sessoms Booker Award, given to the senior who shows loyalty, enthusiasm and a dedication to serving the campus community.
“The process was based on nominations that were made by faculty and staff,” Draskovic said. “Several seniors were nominated for this award and our names were read at the dinner. I felt honored to be nominated alongside amazing senior women who serve the campus community, and I felt extremely proud upon being named the winner. This award means a lot to me because it proved that hard work pays off, and that’s something I really value about Richmond. You will be rewarded for your commitment and devotion to the University, and this is very motivating.” She serves in numerous leadership positions around the University including student representative to the Board of Trustees, resident assistant, member of community service fraternity Alpha Phi Omega and peer associate advisor for incoming freshmen.
Hailing from Trebinje, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Draskovic shared her experience coming to the U.S. “I’m from a developing country, and the opportunities for personal and career growth are limited. Throughout my childhood I worked tirelessly toward my goal of obtaining a quality education at a prestigious institution abroad.” In high school, Draskovic was awarded a scholarship to the United World College (UWC) campus in Bosnia and Herzegovina, part of a global network of schools that teach the international baccalaureate curriculum. “UWC is the only way Bosnian students can hope to continue their education abroad. My dreams for an international education came true when I earned the scholarship.”
Draskovic learned of Richmond from other UWC students. “They were all Richmond students and said it was one of the best decisions they’d made. In the end, I was drawn here by the opportunity to be mentored by the admirable faculty and staff as well as the inclusiveness of the community on campus.”
In May, Draskovic will host a special guest. “My mother will be attending my graduation. This is the first time anyone from my family will visit the U.S., so I very much look forward to spending time with her here.”
Upon graduation Draskovic will begin her career at EY in the assurance department, and by the end of the year she plans to complete the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exam. “I’m excited and nervous as I move closer to my start date, but I know I’m ready.”