When Tanzila came to the United States from Afghanistan in 2020, she was stepping into a completely unfamiliar world. She didn’t know English, was adjusting to a new culture, and was trying to build a future far from the home and family she had left behind. What once felt overwhelming slowly became the beginning of an incredible journey shaped by determination, resilience, and opportunity. 

Today, Tanzila is a proud graduate of Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA), earning her associate degree in Psychology and preparing to transfer to the University of Virginia. Along the way, she became a student leader, mentor, and advocate for others, proving that even the most difficult transitions can lead to extraordinary growth.

“NOVA changed my life,” Tanzila said. “It gave me opportunities I never thought I would have.”

After graduating high school with an advanced diploma in 2023, Tanzila arrived at NOVA determined to succeed academically. But it wasn’t long before she began making an impact far beyond the classroom.

She served two terms as Vice President of the Student Government Association, represented students on the Forum Council, and helped organize cultural events that brought students together and celebrated diversity on campus. Through every role, Tanzila focused on helping others feel welcomed and connected, especially students who, like her, were adjusting to a new environment.

“There were moments when I felt nervous or unsure of myself,” she shared. “But NOVA gave me the confidence to speak up, get involved, and believe that I belonged.”

That sense of belonging became even more meaningful through her work in NOVA’s financial aid office, where she supported students navigating financial and personal challenges. Many of those conversations stayed with her.

“I saw students trying so hard to continue their education while carrying financial stress,” Tanzila said. “I understood those struggles personally.”

Scholarship support played a critical role in her own journey, easing the burden of tuition and educational expenses and allowing her to focus on her studies, leadership opportunities, and future goals.

“Receiving support reminded me that there are people who truly believe in students like me,” she said. “That encouragement means everything.”

One of the most inspiring parts of Tanzila’s story is that she did not walk this journey alone. While she pursued her degree, her mother was also attending NOVA, working toward an engineering degree while balancing family responsibilities. Together, they studied late into the night, motivated one another, and celebrated every achievement side by side.

“Watching my mom continue her education inspired me every day,” Tanzila said. “We kept reminding each other not to give up.”

Now preparing for her next chapter at GWU, Tanzila reflects on how much she has grown since arriving in the United States only a few years ago. NOVA, she says, helped her discover not only her potential, but her purpose.

“I learned that no matter where you come from or what challenges you face, you can still achieve your dreams,” she said.

She hopes her story encourages other students, especially immigrants and international students, to keep moving forward, even when the path feels difficult.

“Take every opportunity you can,” Tanzila said. “Ask questions. Get involved. Believe in yourself. And never give up on your goals.”

To the donors who made her journey possible, her message is heartfelt and simple:

“First of all I want to say thank you for investing in students like me. Your support creates such a difference in student’s lives. It creates opportunities and gives students the chance to build a future full of hope.”

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