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Grads Celebrated Success at In-Person Commencement
Saiyid Shariq received his associate ’ s degree with plans to pursue a bachelor ’ s degree in biology . “ Imagine moving to a different country from a completely different culture , language , norms and people . Sounds quite intimidating , doesn ’ t it ?” said Shariq . “ That is exactly how it was for me . My name is Saiyid Muhammad Ibtehaj Shariq , and I moved to the United States almost three years ago . There were many questions in my head , and the biggest one of them all was how would I pursue my goals ? More like , how would I pave my path to success in America ? PHSC provided me with the right tools and guidance to take a step toward climbing the ladder of success . When I started at PHSC three years ago , I was a very shy and confused kid with no communication skills and a language barrier . The odds were against me ; however , the students , faculty and staff accepted me and welcomed me with open arms . That was the moment I realized this is where I belong , this is family , and this is where I will set my foundation for a successful life ahead . My message to everyone who was or still is in the same situation I was , is to live life and be who you are because at PHSC it is YOU who makes the difference .”
PHSC graduate and student speaker Sara Abdelmagead with PHSC President Timothy L . Beard , Ph . D .
PHSC hosted spring commencement in the Physical Fitness Center at the West Campus — the first inperson , traditional-style graduation ceremonies since the pandemic started . Two commencement ceremonies honored graduates earning bachelor ’ s and associate ’ s degrees and certificates . Student speakers for the ceremonies were Sara Abdelmagead and Saiyid Shariq .
Sara Abdelmagead received her Associate in Science degree in radiography . According to Abdelmagead , she is “ Originally from Egypt . My family and I moved to the USA eight years ago . I started my journey at PHSC back in 2017 . I had the radiography program on my mind because I was always fascinated by the human body , and I always thought of X-ray as a work of art . I had to take extra classes to improve my English before I was able to work on my prerequisites for the program . After two and a half years , I am excited to graduate from the PHSC radiography program . My plan for after graduation is to start my career as soon as possible . I am excited to begin my career as a radiologic technologist in the hospital setting , as I enjoy working in the ER and OR . In the future , I plan to specialize in other modalities , such as interventional radiology .”
Approximately 308 degrees and certificates were conferred at the ceremonies . An estimated 797 spring graduates were eligible to participate .
PHSC graduate Saiyid Shariq speaking at spring commencement .
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