My life has been intertwined with threads of strength, determination, and an unshakeable devotion to justice since the beginning. My mother, a trailblazer in her Syrian family, defied tradition and broke down preconceptions by pursuing and earning a master's degree in law. Her accomplishment was more than just a personal success; it was a declaration that women could aspire to intellectual heights and break away from societal expectations. The triumphant symphony of her victory, however, was abruptly cut off by the harsh chords of conflict and displacement. Faced with the harsh realities of war, my mother was forced to flee her homeland, abandoning her hopes of becoming a lawyer. The desire to provide a better life for her children drove her to venture into unknown territory, but the legal pathways she had hoped to navigate remained unattainable. The echoes of my mother's untold legal tragedy lingered through our daily lives as I grew. The dinner table, a traditional gathering place for family discussions, was turned into a platform where the complexities of global politics, emerging legislation, and cultural changes took center stage. I became an unwitting spectator to the world of law unfolding before me, engulfed in conversations about justice, equity, and the intricacies of right and wrong. My mother's unfulfilled journey became entwined with my goals. I felt an inner calling to pass on her flame and demonstrate that, despite the obstacles she faced, a woman could have it all. The circumstances that dashed her hopes drove my determination to not only become a great lawyer but to go above and beyond and leave a lasting impression, perhaps even climbing to the prestigious position of judge. From a young age, I was drawn to the injustices and tragedies that people endure in society. The idea that the world could be a harsh and unforgiving place for the defenseless fueled my enthusiasm. I aspired to be an example of hope, a defender of rights, and an advocate for individuals who couldn't manage the legal system's intricacies. My desire to practice law is more than a personal ambition; it is a commitment to a larger purpose. It is a pledge to use my legal knowledge as a powerful tool to alleviate the pain of the oppressed, preserve the rights of the voiceless, and correct the inequalities woven into our societal fabric. In weaving my story into the fabric of the legal profession, I hope not just to satisfy my mother's unfulfilled goals, but also to make a meaningful contribution to the desire for justice. Her tale echoes in my journey, pulling me forward with an unwavering drive to create a society where the pursuit of justice knows no borders.

In the halls of Providence College, I am pursuing a major in political science, powered by an interest that has been my compass since childhood. Politics is more than simply a topic to me; it's a challenging riddle that needs to be solved. As I learned more about my family's history as Syrian immigrants in America, this passion grew. My intense interest in the topic was sparked by our discussions about the political forces that influenced their journey and, by extension, our lives. I was motivated to participate in and actively monitor politics because of the practical effects that political decisions have on people and communities. My experience in politics has been marked by a careful balancing act between sensitivity and strength. My greatest asset and worst challenge are both a result of my highly emotional approach. My ability to have an emotional connection to people around me—both known and unknown—is a strong motivator for me to take significant action. It also presents a problem, requiring a delicate balance to prevent being overtaken by the complex emotional aspects present in political discussions. As a first-generation Syrian Muslim navigating the hallways of a private Catholic college, I bring a unique identity with me. My headscarf, my steadfast desire to make a positive impact on the world, and my proud practice of Islam characterize my presence on campus. As well as always being a part of charities and leading fundraisers not only for our community but nationwide. However, one major obstacle to doing good is the high cost of college. My academic journey has taken on a new dimension as a result of this financial hardship, which has also reinforced my determination to effectively navigate the difficult world of higher education. On this journey, the song "Rajeen" has struck a deep chord with me. This heartbreaking song explores the pain that a community experiences in light of the Palestinians' struggles. It gives us a source of inner strength and serves as a reminder of the struggles encountered by others around us. The power of music to stir up empathy and convey the essence of the human experience demonstrates its potential to transcend boundaries and promote human connection. Beyond academic pursuits and personal struggles, though, I believe that my biggest achievement has been changing people's ideas of Islam. I have been able to face the ignorant beliefs that surround Muslims, especially Muslim women, and refute myths about them by just being a decent person and publicly participating in open talks. My goal to spread knowledge and use conversation to bridge cultural divides is my proudest achievement to date as a Muslim. The search for positive change, politics, empathy, and identity are all interwoven themes in the larger picture of my intellectual and personal journey. As I work toward becoming a lawyer, I bring with me the lessons learned from the delicate balance of politics and the strength gained from empathy, all while proudly promoting Islam wherever I go.