April 2025 Student Spotlight

You were selected to present your research at the Middle States Commission on Higher Education 2024 Annual Conference. Can you tell us about your research and what you will present?
I am honored to present my research, which focuses on the unique experiences of graduate students who are parents. Through my work, I explore the challenges they face in balancing their academic and family responsibilities, particularly the lack of institutional support such as childcare assistance. At the conference, I’ll share data on how this type of challenges impact student retention and success, as well as practical recommendations for supporting student-parents more effectively.

What has your experience in the Marxe Higher Education Administration program been thus far?
My experience in the Marxe Higher Education Administration program has been incredibly rewarding. I’ve gained both theoretical knowledge and practical experience that have deepened my understanding of how higher education institutions function in the USA. The program’s focus on real-world applications, especially through internships and networking with industry professionals, has been invaluable. I’ve had the opportunity to apply what I’m learning in my current roles and gain insight into creating policies that foster a more inclusive environment for all students.

What got you interested in education?
My interest in education started during my undergraduate years back in Uzbekistan when I noticed how transformative higher education can be, particularly for first-generation and immigrant students like me. Experiencing the positive impact of education on my own life and seeing the challenges faced by others sparked my desire to advocate for more equitable educational opportunities. I realized that higher education administration offers a unique pathway to create supportive systems that can empower students from diverse backgrounds to thrive.

What are your career aspirations?
I aspire to pursue a career in higher education administration, focusing on developing programs and policies that support underrepresented and marginalized students, particularly immigrants and caretakers. My goal is to be an engaged scholar who works in student affairs or diversity and inclusion, where I can drive initiatives that make higher education more accessible and supportive for all students and a researcher who finds cutting-edge solutions to problems that students in higher education face. Eventually, I hope to take on leadership roles that allow me to shape policies at a broader institutional level, contributing to a more inclusive academic environment across the board.

Can you tell us what participating in Harvard’s HPAIR Conference was like and what your role was?
Attending the Harvard Project for Asian and International Relations (HPAIR) Conference 2025 was an unforgettable experience! As a delegate, I had the opportunity to engage in insightful fireside chats, hear from distinguished speakers like Former Acting U.S. Secretary of Labor Julie Su, and participate in the Impact Challenge, where we tackled real-world issues through innovative solutions.

One of the most valuable aspects was connecting with brilliant individuals from around the world and exchanging ideas on global affairs. I’m grateful for the support from Baruch College’s travel grant, which made this experience possible. Looking forward to continuing these conversations and applying what I’ve learned!