Middle Eastern Scholarship for Political Science

Being a young mixed Pakistani woman, the odds are stacked against me from the framework that was built for society in the United States. As a minority in race, culture, age, and gender, I face a unique set of challenges that many people will never understand or think about. However, through the lens of my aunt’s experiences, I see a path forward that allows my unique identity to foster change and make a meaningful impact. My aunt’s journey is a testament to perseverance and determination. She worked tirelessly to go to Harvard business school, breaking through gender barriers and societal expectations that often limit women, especially during a time of oppression and closed-mindedness. Her success is not only measured by her academic (top of class, moving up a grade level) and professional achievements (CEO of many businesses, being on The Apprentice, etc) but also by her unwavering generosity and commitment to providing opportunities to others. My aunt, Pamela Day, with her experience of the difficulties women have to achieve these many successes, built a private foundation to further her impact by being able to directly fund women and girl organizations in order to facilitate the growth of women leaders for the future. My aunt’s generosity and mission never ceased to halt through the many charities she's hosted fundraisers for, to the animal safety efforts she’s equally passionate for. My aunt's continuous efforts in helping all people and animals displays the limitless passion she has for making positive change and her seriousness on each matter she contributes to. Her story inspires me to approach my studies in political science with the same resilience and dedication as her with everything she’s ever done. Understanding the complexities of the political landscape in the United States requires more than just academic knowledge; it demands personal resolve and a willingness to confront and overcome obstacles. In my own journey, I am motivated by her example to engage actively in my community, advocate for equitable policies, and support initiatives that uplift marginalized groups. My aunt’s success demonstrates that despite systemic barriers, it is possible to achieve great things and make a significant impact. Her generosity in providing opportunities to others reminds me of the importance of mentorship and support networks. By following her example, I aim to not only succeed personally but also to create pathways for others who face similar challenges. Through her story, I see that being a young mixed Pakistani woman in the United States is not just a challenge to be endured but an opportunity to drive meaningful change and inspire others.