Ambreen Sajid and her daughter, Nawal Choudhry, recently graduated together from Stony Brook University’s Health Science program. Both earned their bachelor’s degrees in a ceremony marking years of effort, family support, and determination.
Sajid began her studies in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. Initially finding it difficult to manage coursework with raising a toddler, she paused her education. "I just couldn’t continue because I couldn’t go to campus," she said. The prospect of graduating together emerged when Choudhry decided to transfer to Stony Brook. "I had no clue that we would be graduating together, but we ended up doing it."
Choudhry transferred from Quinnipiac University in Connecticut to pursue strong allied health programs at Stony Brook while staying close to home. "Honestly, it was a culmination of a lot of different things," she explained.
While they did not share many classes, they took an online psychology course together in 2023. This shared experience strengthened their bond and understanding of each other's academic pressures. Sajid remarked on this connection: “Every time I told Nawal how stressed I am with assignments and exams, she’d say, ‘I’m so glad you understand.’”
Their journey was marked by personal challenges as well; Sajid’s younger daughter became seriously ill and passed away last fall. During this period, Choudhry provided critical support to her mother. "She was my rock," said Sajid.
Both women pursued distinct tracks within their major: Choudhry followed the clinical Track 4 focusing on radiology, while Sajid aimed for Track 5 related to becoming a physician assistant.
Reflecting on their time at Stony Brook, both highlighted the supportive faculty and staff. "Deborah Zelizer, the program director was wonderful and so supportive," said Sajid.
For other nontraditional students or families considering college together, Sajid advises: “Do it... if you keep your eye on the goal... you’ll come out stronger.” Choudhry expressed similar sentiments about the program's impact: “The entire process has been really great.”
Graduating side-by-side is a testament to their shared resilience and commitment.
— Beth Squire