International Spotlight: Fatima Jawad Syed, Graduate Student at School of Professional Studies

Which program/department are you in?

Masters in Nonprofit Management.

Which country (or countries) do you come from?

Pakistan.

How long have you been in the U.S.?

I moved to the U.S in September 2021, so I’ve been here for 4 months.

Tell us a bit about your projects/studies.

I’m a social entrepreneur, aiming to make a positive impact on the lives of marginalised groups. I worked for the betterment of the transgender community in Pakistan, learnt basic level Pakistani Sign Language to connect with hearing impaired individuals, and I am interested in learning more about lives of both these communities.

Tell us about your research interests.

My research interests include women empowerment in the Pakistani context, impact of domestic violence, and understanding of how psychology plays a role in our day to day lives. I’m hoping to explore all of the above during my time at Columbia.

What do you like to do in your free time?

I like to write, think or relax with a show. I also have a love for long walks and enjoy just sitting around campus, taking in its beauty and grace.

What do you know now that you wish you knew before coming to NYC?

That it would take some time to settle in, so I should finish all commitments, preparations and goodbyes before shifting to NYC. 

Connect with Fatima on LinkedIn or check out her Instagram page where she shares her reflections!

Are you (or do you know) an international student, scholar, or alumni?

We’re looking to spotlight stories of academic or professional work, leadership, or personal adjustment to life at Columbia and NY in particular and the U.S. in general.

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