As we approach the end of the year, we’re reflecting on what it takes for a successful college journey. For many first-generation students, who often face hurdles that go far beyond academics, it takes more than determination to get through college—it takes a village.
We’re honored to support students like Fiza Shaikh, a first-generation student from San Francisco, who knows this journey well. From navigating unfamiliar systems to overcoming obstacles, she faced each challenge with determination.
Now a college graduate and preparing to pursue a post-baccalaureate program at UC Davis, Fiza reflects on her journey with pride and gratitude for her ScholarMatch coach.
In her own words, she shares the lessons, struggles, and victories that shaped her path, hoping to inspire other students to follow their college dreams.
Balancing Family, Work, and Dreams: A First-Generation Graduate’s Story
“I'm Fiza Shaikh, the proud daughter of immigrants from India and Pakistan who manage a small motel in San Francisco, where my brother and I grew up.
In high school, I discovered my passion for healthcare while volunteering at a local hospital. But when the time came to apply to college, I felt overwhelmed. That changed when I was introduced to ScholarMatch.
My ScholarMatch college coach guided me through the application process, helped me secure scholarships, and I’m happy to say I was accepted to the University of San Francisco!
Then the pandemic hit, and the motel struggled. It was the hardest time of my life, but ScholarMatch was there again, checking in and encouraging me to stay on track while I worked three jobs to support my family.
Last year, I graduated from USF with a degree in biology and minors in health studies and neuroscience, in just four years and completely debt-free.
Today, I work as a patient care technician while continuing to help at the motel, and I will begin my post-baccalaureate program at UC Davis this January.
I’m proud of how far I’ve come, but I didn’t get here alone. It took my family, my ScholarMatch mentors, and a community of people who believed in me.”
With heartfelt gratitude,
Fiza Shaikh
Class of 2024, University of San Francisco
PS. Join our community of education champions this holiday season! Make a gift today to help more students like me get the essential support needed to thrive in college year-round.
