F.P. Report
ISLAMABAD : My name is Hadia Ashfaq, a student at FAST National University of Computer and Emerging Sciences Islamabad, currently pursuing a degree in BS Accounting and Finance. I am excited to share my experience participating in the STEM Sisters Exchange Program held in the USA, organized by the US government and the American Institute of Pakistan Studies.
This fully funded program was a golden opportunity, and I am immensely grateful for the chance to be part of it.
The journey began when I received an email from my university’s career department about the STEM Sisters Exchange Program. After completing the application process, I was thrilled to be selected to participate and had the incredible opportunity to travel to the University of Delaware.
Out of numerous applicants, 25 girls from across Pakistan and Kashmir were chosen, and being one of them was truly an honor. It was not about 25 girls, it was about 25 families, 25 generations. This program provided a remarkable opportunity especially for girls from underserved areas where education for girls is often
limited.
Upon our arrival at the University of Delaware, we were warmly welcomed by the faculty members, who were exceptionally supportive and passionate about guiding us throughout the program.
The three-week program, including two weeks in Delaware, was unforgettable as we delved into topics such as climate change and sustainability practices. We had the privilege of learning from esteemed professors who not only taught us theoretically but also provided practical insights.
The program included various site visits, including energy labs, solar energy plants, and wind farms. We learned about marine life and the innovative technologies used to collect data from the depths of the oceans. A highlight was discovering how sharks are used for data collection through smart technology.
We also visited Cape Henlopen and gained insights into American history, including the DuPont family’s contributions to the state. For me, as an accounting and finance student, the program offered a unique perspective. It was fascinating to learn how sustainable environmental and social practices can contribute to economic growth.
The diverse group of students, hailing from fields such as physics, chemistry, and medicine, enriched the experience, making it both interesting and valuable.
The program also included enjoyable activities, such as dinners hosted by local families, games, parties, and more. A memorable highlight was our visit to New York, where my dream of visiting the United Nations as a delegate of Pakistan came true. We also had productive meetings at the Asian Society and visited Princeton University, where we saw the river where Einstein met Oppenheimer.
Additionally, touring Times Square and the Statue of Liberty was an unforgettable experience. I extend my heartfelt appreciation to the faculty members, including Dr. Saleem Ali, Dr. Dana Veron, Dr. Terrianne Lavin, Dr Matt Kinservik and the dorm supervisors, who were incredibly supportive and made our journey smooth and enjoyable.
After our two weeks in Delaware, we moved to Washington, D.C., where we received a warm welcome from Michael McPhee and Larissa Cerbin. Our first day in D.C. included the Smithsonian Folklife Festival, followed by visits to numerous museums and historical sites.
A significant highlight was our visit to the US Department of State, where we had a productive conference discussing the STEM Exchange Program.
We also had the incredible opportunity to visit NASA Headquarters, where we learned about their latest advancements and initiatives in space exploration. This program aims to empower girls from underdeveloped countries by providing them with opportunities for higher education, thereby strengthening ties between Pakistan and the US.
This program has been a transformative experience, empowering us to set examples for others to focus on girls’ education. I am deeply thankful to all the wonderful people who made this journey memorable and to my parents for their unwavering support.
Overall, the STEM Sisters Exchange Program has been a life-changing experience that I will cherish forever. It has broadened my horizons, provided me with invaluable knowledge, and empowered me to make a positive impact in my community and beyond.
