Malcolm Allen, an accounting major from San Diego, CA, was selected as a Forbes Under 30 Scholar. The scholarship program gives a diverse group of students from across the country free admission to this year’s Forbes Under 30 Summit in Detroit, MI. According to the Forbes website, “The world’s defining event for entrepreneurs will convene 10,000 young visionaries and disruptors Oct. 27-30 in Detroit, the ultimate symbol of entrepreneurial renaissance.”

Allen first heard about this opportunity through his classmate alumnus Divonte Lumpkin. “He has been the most supportive and encouraging person that I have ever encountered,” said Allen, “Not only has he helped me with applying to this summit, but he also helped me apply for the Executive Leadership Council scholarship where I’ll be receiving a $7,000 scholarship in Washington DC while representing Texas Southern University.”

Summit applications opened up in early July, and Allen completed his application during the 4th of July weekend. He was notified of his selection weeks later on July 20. During the application process, he was asked to share his goals and aspirations as well as what he thought he would be able to bring to the summit. He said one of his main goals at this summit is to make as many connections as he can and bring those opportunities back with him to TSU.

“As the President of the TSU chapter of the National Association of Black Accountants (NABA), it’s my duty in life as I climb to give back to not only my peers, but my community as well. It’s something that I love to do.” He says he will be bringing a fresh mindset, and the determination to learn as much about corporate America as he can at the summit.

“One of the top things I’m looking forward to at the summit is hearing Serena Williams talk about her life experience and her pursuit of becoming a positive role model,” said Allen, “I’m excited to connect with over 1,000 different college students and be able to share my experience at an HBCU.”