My name is Arooba Sholmyiet ’23 and I was born and raised in Islamabad, Pakistan. I am a Business Management major here at Albertus Magnus College and I will be graduating in May 2023. I chose to come to Albertus not only because it gave me a great financial aid package, but also because of its foundation in the Dominican traditions.
Religion is very important to me and I was drawn in by Albertus’ sense of community. Back home, I published a children’s book called “How Big is God?” a story affirming God’s love and helping others develop a relationship with him. This has gained publicity through different television networks back in Pakistan, leading me to be able to meet new people and experience new things.
The major difference I have found here in the U.S. and Pakistan is the culture. In Pakistan, many people come from conservative backgrounds and women are not independent. Here, I feel comfortable being able to speak on any topic easily and not feel restricted. I love the environment at Albertus because of how open it is. I am able to speak to my peers and professors without hesitation, which is an amazing feeling. Three words I would use to describe Albertus are friendly, cooperative and supportive.
I have turned my challenges into opportunities through hard-work and passion, hoping that it will lead me to a bright future. I am certain this will happen especially being a student here. If I had to say just one thing about Albertus, it would be a very simple phrase: “I love it!”