Interview with Hannah Bagarić
Ajla Dizdarevic
Hannah Bagarić earned a Master of Science in marketing research and a bachelor’s degree in marketing from Michigan State University. As a graduate student, Hannah completed a capstone project, during which she conducted a consultative marketing research study for a local business. Hannah received a 2024 BAPA scholarship and attended the 2024 Annual Forum in Detroit, Michigan.
How did you find out about BAPA and its scholarship offerings?
I discovered BAPA through Azra Toković, who received a BAPA scholarship a few years ago. Azra and I danced together in Behar Detroit, a Bosnian traditional dance group. After seeing one of BAPA’s posts recognizing Azra’s amazing achievements, I quickly became interested and did research on BAPA’s mission and offerings. From there, I made the decision to apply for a scholarship.
How has BAPA's scholarship supported you?
The BAPA scholarship has helped me pay back loans I accrued from pursuing my graduate degree. Prior to winning the scholarship, I viewed the financial aspect of my degree as a daunting hurdle. I will always remember the joy and gratitude I felt when I learned I had been selected as one of BAPA’s scholarship recipients; it felt like I had come one step closer to achieving my career goals!
What was your experience like at BAPA's 2024 Annual Forum?
During the forum, I met many accomplished and inspiring Bosnian Americans. I even ended up making new friends! I cultivated an even stronger relationship with the Bosnian American community and developed a stronger sense of my own personal identity. There were so many lessons I learned by attending the forum, but one sticks out to me. During one of the speaker panels, someone mentioned how personal growth does not have to stop after a person finishes their studies; in fact, we as individuals should continue exploring how to grow, whether that be through pursuing certifications, developing new skills, or attending leadership conferences. This felt very relevant to me; when I was at the BAPA forum, I was transitioning from being a university student to becoming a working professional.
Additionally, I gave a presentation that involved a marketing research deep dive into potential strategies that BiH could take to increase tourism in less visited areas. I specifically focused on sustainable and adventure tourism. BAPA was an excellent resource as I spent time drafting my presentation and determining what content to include. BAPA board member Šejla was a great help; she offered multiple ideas on how to take my presentation to the next level. She also connected me with one of the previous scholarship winners, Nejla Kravić, who graciously reviewed my presentation. Both of these ladies played large roles in the creation of a presentation that I felt genuinely proud of.
How has your experience with BAPA developed your academic and/or career goals?
BAPA gave me the opportunity to put my public speaking skills to the test in front of an audience of over 100 people. I remember feeling so nervous prior to stepping on stage to speak about my presentation, but once I got into the groove of things, it felt so empowering! Having the chance to present a project I spent weeks on in a room full of so many role models is an experience that I will hold dear to my heart for years to come.
What advice do you have for other Bosnian students who are interested in applying for the scholarship?
Start your application as early as you can! The more time you have, the more thoughtful and accurate your responses will be in terms of fully capturing your authentic self and your achievements. I also suggest running through some common scholarship applications with a friend so that you are able to build confidence talking about yourself. And, of course, make sure that you allow your personality to shine through in your responses!
