"My vision is for future generations to grow up with the knowledge that perseverance, adaptability, and commitment to personal growth can help them overcome any challenge, especially with the support of professors, mentors, and loved ones who want to see them succeed."

Milla Borrego is an undergraduate majoring in economics with a minor in business at the University of Michigan. Originally from Buenos Aires, Argentina, Milla moved to the U.S. in 2021 in pursuit of greater opportunities. She became a U.S. citizen through her service as a musician in the U.S. Army National Guard — an experience that instilled discipline and a deep sense of purpose in her.

Milla’s educational journey has been anything but linear. After graduating from high school, she spent several years gaining hands-on experience in her field while studying part-time and taking care of her family. Despite a few roadblocks that forced her to step away from her studies for a period of time, she never lost sight of her academic and professional goals: “Every challenge I faced has strengthened my resilience, intensified my determination, and reinforced my belief that education is the key to unlocking greater opportunities,” Milla writes.

As she returns to school, Milla brings more than a decade of professional experience in event marketing, brand strategy, and business development. She worked as an event sales and marketing manager in Buenos Aires, and after immigrating to the U.S., she worked as a field marketing consultant. Milla is currently pivoting into financial economics, market strategy, and business consulting, building on her previous success in her field. Milla’s long-term vision is to advance her career in this field by combining data analysis and strategic planning with creativity to deliver meaningful projects and measurable results that help companies grow. Her drive to succeed is matched by her commitment to serving others. Milla plans to use her experience and education to inspire other women — especially immigrants and young professionals in her field — to pursue their goals despite obstacles. “My vision is for future generations to grow up with the knowledge that perseverance, adaptability, and commitment to personal growth can help them overcome any challenge, especially with the support of professors, mentors, and loved ones who want to see them succeed.” Milla shares.

CEW+ celebrates Milla’s commitment to empowering others and names her the Ruth Jeanette Buttrey Scholar.