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“I was born in Afghanistan. Growing up, I always wanted to go to school and become a doctor. However, I was uncertain if I would be able to achieve my dreams because of the academic challenges Afghan girls face due to the Taliban’s regime. I was lucky enough to move to the United States, where I would be able to go to school without any issue.
“When I first found out I was heading to the U.S., I was on cloud nine, thinking all my struggles would vanish the moment I stepped foot there. But when I actually arrived, reality hit hard—everything was different. The culture, the schools, and even the language, felt like a whole new world. My dreams of going to college all of the sudden felt impossible. Imposter syndrome hit me hard. Despite the security and support around me, I felt lost—like my dreams were suddenly out of reach. However, it didn’t stop me from believing in myself because it was the time when I discovered Reality Changers.
Through Reality Changers, I was able to find the courage to get back on track and continue pursuing my dreams. I was offered an opportunity to take a class at UC San Diego over the summer and, through this program, I learned so many things about the university. I ended up applying to UCSD. With the help of Reality Changers and my mentors, I got accepted. Besides college applications, Reality Changers helped me apply for multiple scholarships to make sure I have enough budget to continue my college journey without financial struggles.
“Reality Changers continues to support me till this day. I am so grateful I joined this amazing opportunity. Without Reality Changers’ help, I wouldn’t be able to achieve things I have achieved so far. My journey from the day I came to the US and my success story reminds me of a quote that says ‘the only permission you need is your own’ because if I didn’t decide to join Reality Changers in high school, I wouldn’t be able to go to such a wonderful university.”
Hashima is a first year student at UC San Diego. She hopes to continue on to medical school and eventually become a doctor.