Hometown: Quetta, Balochistan, Pakistan
Why did you choose McCourt? I chose McCourt because it is a renowned institution known for its excellence in policy studies. I am eager to enhance my knowledge and skills in policy-making, and McCourt offers the ideal environment for me to achieve this goal. Its reputation for producing impactful policy leaders and providing a rigorous academic framework perfectly aligns with my aspirations to contribute to meaningful policy development.
What professional/ work experience did you have prior to coming to McCourt? Before joining McCourt, I gained valuable professional experience in various roles that strengthened my skills in research, leadership, and policy development. I worked as a Research Assistant on two significant projects: one focused on youth unemployment in Balochistan and the other on urban development in Quetta. My responsibilities included field surveys, data collection, and data visualization, which honed my analytical and organizational skills.
In addition to research, I held leadership roles, such as serving as the President of the BUITEMS Girls Society, where I organized impactful women’s empowerment seminars and engaged diverse audiences to challenge gender norms. I also served as the Head of Partnerships, successfully negotiating sponsorships with prominent organizations and raising substantial funds for student initiatives.
These experiences, along with my involvement in community-driven projects like winter and Ramadan drives for underprivileged families, reflect my commitment to creating meaningful change and align with my passion for policy-making and development.
What has been the best part of your experience so far? The best part of my experience at McCourt so far has been the opportunity to engage with a diverse and intellectually stimulating community. Being surrounded by passionate individuals from different parts of the world, each bringing unique perspectives to policy discussions, has broadened my understanding of global challenges and enriched my learning journey.
I’ve particularly enjoyed the collaborative environment, where classroom discussions, group projects, and faculty interactions have provided not just academic insights but also practical tools for tackling real-world policy issues. These experiences have deepened my analytical skills and strengthened my confidence in developing innovative solutions.
Additionally, being part of McCourt has reinforced my passion for public service and policy-making, inspiring me to stay committed to my goal of driving impactful change, particularly in the areas of education, gender equality, and sustainable development.
What internships have you had so far during your time at McCourt? I am currently in the process of exploring summer internship opportunities that align with my academic and professional interests. My focus is on securing an internship where I can contribute to research, data analysis, and policy development, particularly in areas such as education, gender equality, sustainable development, or public-private partnerships. While I have not yet undertaken an internship during my time at McCourt, my previous professional experiences, including research assistance and community-driven initiatives, have equipped me with the skills and drive to make a meaningful impact in an internship setting. I am eager to apply the knowledge I have gained at McCourt to address real-world policy challenges.
Student organization involvement while at McCourt: I am part of the Energy and Environment (E&E) Group because my background has deeply shaped my commitment to these issues. Growing up in a region facing severe environmental crises and inconsistent access to energy, I have seen firsthand how these challenges affect communities. This experience has fueled my passion for advocating sustainable practices and innovative energy solutions.
Undergraduate University, degree, and major: Buitems Quetta, International Relations
Hobbies/ Interests: My hobbies and interests are deeply intertwined with my passion for learning and creating impactful change. I enjoy conducting qualitative research, particularly exploring gender dynamics, environmental sustainability, and international development policy. These interests stem from my desire to understand complex issues and craft solutions that bring meaningful change.
In addition, I am passionate about advocating for women’s education and empowerment, especially in marginalized communities. I also have a keen interest in environmental sustainability, focusing on projects that promote renewable energy and reduce waste.
Beyond my academic and professional pursuits, I enjoy engaging with diverse communities, learning from their experiences, and fostering connections that enrich my perspective. I also take pleasure in public speaking, community service, and exploring innovative solutions to policy challenges.
These interests reflect my broader commitment to building a more equitable, sustainable, and informed society.