Meet Zara

Name: Zara Islam

Class of: 2026

Program: Bachelor of Science in Information Technologies

"I am so grateful for this scholarship. I don't have the words to fully express my appreciation."


What do you like most about SNHU?

I like the way SNHU provides support and helps students to reach their academic goals.

How do the scholarships and financial aid you receive make it possible for you to attend SNHU? Specifically, how have scholarships made a difference?

I’m currently a student-worker, which provides valuable experience, but it can still be challenging to meet the full cost of housing, meals, and tuition. Scholarships make a huge difference in helping me manage these costs and continue my studies.

What would you say to those who donate to support student scholarships?

I am so grateful for this scholarship. I don't have the words to fully express my appreciation. I am truly happy that this scholarship will help pay off my present and future tuition balance. Now I am relieved from worrying about the tuition costs, and I can continue my education without financial fear. 

Why did you choose Southern New Hampshire University?

Southern New Hampshire University offers great online and on campus study support opportunities. They value their students in an individual, unique way. 

What was your hope in receiving a college education? How has your experience been different than what you’d imagined?

When I first started school I did not feel confident; however, with the support of Southern New Hampshire University I now feel full of confidence. I am finishing my bachelor's program and I'm in the process of working on my MBA.

What inspired you to choose your area of study? What is your dream job?

I have always been fascinated with technology and wanted to focus my studies on it. My dream job is in IT Management or Project Management.

Who at SNHU (professor, coach, advisor, etc.) has been the biggest influence on your college experience? What lessons did that person teach you?

Dr. Lundy Lewis (my professor and advisor) has always been supportive of my learning needs and respected my learning style. Also, Amanda Doyle (my academic advisor) has helped me to see where I wanted to go and guided me on how to get there.

In what ways have you been involved at SNHU (campus organizations, job, sports, etc.)?

I am actively involved in SNHU by working with students and supporting the department as an administrative assistant. My responsibilities included entering data into the student portal. Over my summer break, I also assisted the Operations Department with their summer conference project.

What do you find most challenging? How do you deal with this?

Balancing work, class assignments, financial struggles, and finals as a student can be very overwhelming. Sometimes it's hard to balance everything at once, but I've had great help from Student Financial Services and my professors, specifically when it comes to class, work, and studying for exams.

What are you proudest of?

No matter what challenges I face, I always overcome them, and that's something I am truly proud of.

In what ways do you want/hope to stay involved as an SNHU graduate?

As a graduate, I hope to continue to work for SNHU and be involved in any of the projects to help the University grow more and help other students succeed in their educational journey.

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