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Growing up in a small village in Turkmenistan, Sayara Rozymuradova explored the world through books. Reading stories by authors from different countries sparked her curiosity about life beyond her village and a dream of one day studying abroad.

When she moved to the United States, that dream suddenly felt within reach. But as a first-generation college student navigating an unfamiliar education system, Sayara also wanted something more: a place where she could belong.

“After moving to the US, I wanted to pursue my dream as a first-generation college student. I was told ���Ĵ�ý was one of the best colleges with a lot of international students and it had a diverse community.”

Sayara arrived at ���Ĵ�ý with a passion for connecting with people and learning about their experiences, but she wasn’t yet sure where those interests would take her. She gave herself time to explore classes, opportunities and possible career paths.

Then she discovered student leadership.

During her second year, Sayara traveled to Washington, D.C., as an Associated Students of ���Ĵ�ý (AS���Ĵ�ý) student leader to advocate for students. The experience changed the direction of her education.

“In my second school year, when I went to DC to advocate as an AS���Ĵ�ý student leader, I was the voice of millions and saw how much change one student could make, which made me interested in political science.”

It was a defining moment, but getting there hadn’t been easy. 

As the oldest child in her family, Sayara helped her parents adjust to life in the United States and navigate documentation while figuring out college herself. Unaware that financial aid might be available, she began working full time to pay tuition while attending school. She was also learning in her fifth language.

“It was hard for me to understand the school system. I didn't know how to ask for help; I didn't know about ���Ĵ�ý resources. Academically, the biggest challenge I faced was learning material in English because it was my fifth language. Because I had broken English, I was shy and quiet and was afraid that people would judge me.”

Over time, ���Ĵ�ý faculty and staff helped Sayara find the support and confidence she needed.

“Todd Farr helped me on my leadership journey when I was an AS���Ĵ�ý Technology Officer. He guided me as I learned how to lead and take responsibilities in the team and taught me how to make decisions that affect the student body.”  

���Ĵ�ý Forensics became another important part of her transformation. With guidance from Robert Hawkins, Sayara strengthened the public-speaking skills she once struggled to find.  

“I learned how to organize my thoughts, speak, and stand in front of a room without freezing up. Their advice shaped how I see myself and what I believe I'm capable of.”

Political science ultimately brought together Sayara’s interest in people, leadership and creating meaningful change.  

“Political science helped me to understand how policies and systems affect real people's lives. I learned how to research, write and speak persuasively. I didn't have those skills when I first came to the US and could barely speak in class discussions. It gave me the confidence to use my voice for bigger changes.”

That confidence has taken her far beyond where she started.

Sayara completed her Associate in Arts for Transfer degree in political science at ���Ĵ�ý and is now studying at the . Her next goal? Law school and a career as a lawyer.

What can future ���Ĵ�ý students take away from Sayara’s story? Dream big, don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone, and get involved. The resources are there for you. 

“I think my biggest achievements at ���Ĵ�ý were leaving my comfort zone. By pushing myself to join the student government and clubs, I learned how amazing the people around me are. I learned how to ask for help. Every resource was created to make students' lives easier. And every ���Ĵ�ý staff is there to support us.”

For students wondering whether they can find their own path at ���Ĵ�ý, Sayara’s story offers a powerful reminder. You don’t have to arrive with everything figured out. Explore your interests, connect with your community, use the resources available to you and give yourself the opportunity to discover what you’re capable of.

Watch Sayara’s full and learn more about her transformational journey as an international student at ���Ĵ�ý.