Student Experience: Subah Saiara Ahmed

What was your life like prior to becoming an international student in 2024?
“Before coming to Dallas College, I completed a program in aeronautical engineering in Bangladesh. Unfortunately, it wasn’t equivalent to anything in the U.S., so I couldn’t transfer my credits. But I was happy to start fresh here because I have a lot more opportunities here compared to what I had in Bangladesh.”

What life experience shaped the person you are now?
“I think who I am today is largely because of my mom. She ran a business for 16 years. She would take me to meetings starting when I was 14 or 15. I would write emails, plan events, follow up with clients and help execute the events. When I volunteer or organize events here at Dallas College, everything feels similar to what I learned years ago from her.”

Can you talk about your relationship with your mom and how her diagnosis affected you?
“When she was diagnosed, my life felt blank. Thankfully, she didn’t need chemotherapy. Doctors gave us 10 years cancer-free, but there’s still uncertainty. Being away from her now is hard. Everything I do now is about achieving as much as I can while she’s alive so she can see me become what she hoped I would be.”

What makes you such a great leader?
“I just try to be like my mom. She would go out of her way for anyone. When I came to the U.S., support wasn’t easy to access. I know how it feels to be a nervous first-generation student. Because of the challenges I faced, I feel driven to help students who are struggling.”

Tell us about your experience as a woman in STEM.
“In my aeronautical engineering program, I was one of only two women in a class of 20. Watching my mom inspired me. Now I’m realizing that other students get inspired watching me. I feel proud to be a woman in STEM.”

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