Rawad Al Zahabi

I was 18 years old when my family immigrated to America from Turkey. We were just getting ready to move to Istanbul, the city of love. I was looking forward to the Bosphorus, İstiklal’s Street, and to begin studying to become a pilot at İstanbul Okan Üniversitesi. However, these hopes were re-routed as my family opted to move to the US, and so I had to form new dreams. Over the last couple years, perseverance has become a friend as I’ve learned to navigate this new life as an international student. From becoming proficient with the English language and exploring creative writing outlets as a hobby, to making new friends, I’ve had to embrace change. From starting my college journey at one institution that proved not to be a good fit to discovering my opportunity as a student leader at Tri-C, each moment has been an adventure. Though there have been many challenges, I’ve learned to make the best of each situation, continuing to develop my skills, and form new goals. I have discovered that I have passion for biology and more than that, an aptitude for it. Though it might not be on the banks of Istanbul, as I had originally hoped, a few months ago, I proudly graduated with an associate’s degree in science and a GPA of 3.9. Because of these self-discoveries and my drive to help others lead a healthy life, my new goal is now to become an Anesthesiologist. I was blessed with having ten universities accept my application and offer scholarships, including Loyola University Chicago, University of Tampa, The Ohio State University, Southwestern University, and La Salle University, and after much consideration, I chose Kent State University. It is a beautiful campus with strong programs, diverse people, and new opportunities. I’m so excited to further my adventure there. In two years, it will be on to medical school, but until then I will hold hope close and continue to persevere, meeting each challenge with positivity and a focus on growth.