I had a very unique experience photographing Sophie on both coasts of the United States. The first part of her senior photoshoot happened in Philadelphia, where we were both visiting a group of Afghan girls who we’ve been mentoring and helping through their transition to the US. While in Philly, we wandered around Old Town and all the historic sites where the founding fathers made history in establishing this new country.
The second part of her senior photo shoot happened back in her hometown in Southern California. And we went out to a beach that she visits often and did photos at sunset. It was also my last day in the U. S. on that trip. So it was extra special to say goodbye to my home country right there, as well as photograph Sophie as she was about to face the beginning of her senior year – the sunset of her high school education.
Since then, Sophie has been accepted into Harvard University and will be attending there this fall. I am so excited for this young woman. She is a changemaker. She is a visionary. She brings hope to those around her. But above all, she is also extremely kind and compassionate, and I know that anything that she is involved in is going to flourish because she possesses both heart and brains. Good luck at Harvard, Sophie!
You just committed to Harvard! So exciting. Why did you choose that college over any other school? I chose Harvard because I felt that it would provide me the opportunity to live in a completely new environment away from home. I’ve always wanted to experience the east coast and love the Boston area! Talking to other Harvard students, I was excited to hear about how they love their experiences so far and felt touched by their genuine interest in helping me. In addition to Harvard’s many resources and opportunities, I was especially drawn to Harvard’s efforts to build a tight community like through their separate dining hall for first-years and the housing system!
Looking back on high school, what are your favorite memories? My favorite memories of high school are the dances, field trip to the Getty museum, and complaining about schoolwork with friends. In senior year especially, we had a ton of fun events scheduled. My favorites were grad bash at Universal Studios, prom, senior sunset, and yearbook signing!
What accomplishments are you most proud of? In high school, I’m most proud of being recognized by Representative Judy Chu as Youth of the Year for founding Omid for Girls, which now has 18 chapters and includes over 200 tutors. I was also ranked top 20 in the country for junior squash and #1 for women in Southern California.
What are you most looking forward to in moving across the country to go to college? I’m most looking forward to meeting new people from all over the world and exploring Boston!
Squash has been a big part of your life as well. Tell me how you got into it and how much will it be a part of your life after high school? I first found out about squash after my mom read that it was ranked the healthiest sport in an article by Forbes and suggested that I try it out. A nearby racquet club had squash so I was able to play. I love how squash is such a fast-paced sport and also incorporates strategy, thus nicknamed “physical chess.” Plus it’s indoors and air-conditioned! At Harvard, I plan to try out for the varsity squash team, but they also have an active club team as well.
You also founded a non-profit called Omid that provides online tutoring for girls in Afghanistan with girls similarly aged in the US and even other countries. What are some of the most important things you’ve learned about yourself and the world through that experience. Through Omid, I’ve seen how education can be used to empower girls worldwide. I was surprised to see not only the Afghan girls enthusiastic to learn, but also the high school girls eager to tutor. I also learned the importance of building a supportive community and the value of a group effort in creating change.
You’re leaving sunny southern California for Boston winters. Are you ready for it? I would like to say that I’m ready for it, but I guess I’ll never know until I get there! But even if I freeze, I’m excited for the new experience, and I can always come back to California after college
What advice would you give someone still in high school, like your younger brother, to make the most of the time they have there? One piece of advice I have to current high schoolers is to pursue your passions and use them to help others. Don’t let your talents go to waste! It’s also especially beneficial mentally and socially to engage deeply in activities that have supportive communities so that you have people to encourage and help you in your pursuits.
Tell me how your parents have influenced and inspired you to be who you are today. Words cannot express the role my parents have played in shaping my journey. They have guided and supported me in everything I do, from traveling with me to squash tournaments to giving me advice about running Omid. Their strong faith especially inspires me to trust in God’s plan and use my resources for good. I hope they know how grateful I am for their endless support.
What do you plan to study in college and what do you hope to do with that knowledge/degree? I’m interested in studying Applied Math or Sociology with a Data Analytics track. I’m not entirely sure about what I want to do in the future, but I’m thinking about consulting for nonprofits or potentially applying for medical schools. I’m passionate about STEM and helping people, so ideally something relating to these!
Show Sophie some love and support as she prepares to move across the country! Know anyone who reminds you of her spirit? Share this story with them!
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