Looking back to when I was applying to college all the way from Abu Dhabi, U.A.E. is so surreal. I honestly have no idea how I got so lucky in picking San Diego State without even touring it. I remember watching YouTube videos of the campus and students vlogging to get a sense of what it would be like. I can’t believe I did all that when I was here by myself and my family and friends are, quite literally, continents away.
I joined The Daily Aztec by accident, shoutout to Andrew Dyer. I wrote for news for a while until I discovered we have a video section and everything just clicked. Joining video was one of the best decisions I made in my four years here. I got to discover a passion for filming and editing that I never knew I had. I also got to meet an amazing mentor, Mirella Lopez, who believed in me and taught me how to be a successful multimedia journalist. The Daily Aztec very quickly became my home away from home.
It didn’t really hit me that I’m graduating college until I got a package in the mail with my cap and gown. The first thing I did, after taking a few Snapchats, was call my friends from middle and high school. I just couldn’t believe the same kid is graduating college.
As I reflect on my four years here, I’m amazed at all I could do. There were times where I worked three jobs at once, and times where I worked a full-time job with a graveyard shift, all while staying a full-time student. It was really hard to find a balance between all that, keeping a social life and at least a few hours of sleep. But I just know that when things get hard, I’ll look back at my time at SDSU and know there’s nothing I can’t do.
My grandpa and I were so close when I was growing up. He taught me Arabic, math, social studies and history all up to the 7th grade. He passed away when I was in my junior year of high school, and during my graduation I remember thinking, “This one’s for you.” I hope he’s proud and looking out for me still. I hope he knows I’m graduating.
Growing up in Egypt, It’s always so rare to find people who love what they do. It’s usually just another duty to put food on the table. That’s exactly why I’m truly grateful I found a career I am passionate about. I am always excited to go to work, film and edit. I know in my heart that I’m meant to be a journalist and I’m so happy I found this career path.
There are so many people in my life that helped me get to where I am, and where I’ll be in the future. But it wouldn’t be a senior farewell If I don’t thank my family. My parents are true superheroes for getting their four kids through college, their support means everything and I’m the luckiest daughter in the world. Thank you, I did it!
