Fotima

Tajikistan, SUSI 2018

In Fotima’s experience, many Tajik students dream of studying abroad, especially in America. In order to bring that dream closer to reality, Fotima organized a four-hour information session to share information about USA study opportunities with 26 undergraduates at her former university. Alumni from FLEX, UGRAD and SUSI programs all presented, as well as representatives from an Au Pair program and Multikid Agency. Presenters shared the details of their program, how it impacted their life and in some cases even altered their career goals. They also shared details on how to apply.

Fotima wrote, “When I was student at Tajik State Institute of Languages I had a dream to meet with some US (study program) Alumni and get information about studying in USA. Unfortunately, my Institute was not able to give us this opportunity. So having this conference I hope we could help the students whose dream was the same.”

Fotima reflected on how the SUSI experience helped prepare her to organize a successful event. “This is my first step to my career to help others and being independent. Before I was silent girl and it was really difficult for me to speak up in public. But SUSI [gave] me the lesson which took away all the barriers in my way for being a good woman leader. Now for sure I can say that I am ready to have another bigger project which can help others and to be developed.”

Fotima with other USA study program presenters.
Fotima (third from right) with all of the USA study program presenters.

Students in a classroom listening to presentations.
26 students from the Tajik state Institute of Languages attended the presentation.

Mission

The Study of the United States Institute (SUSI) on Women's Leadership is sponsored by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA). ECA’s mission is "to foster mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of other countries to promote friendly and peaceful relations.