Seven years ago, Aryanaz Besharatlou left her hometown in northwestern Iran and embarked on a life-changing journey to the United States. Aryanaz’s path took her through unique experiences that shaped her personal and academic life as a first-generation immigrant student. She has found her stride at Phoenix College (PC), emerging as a leader and advocating for others navigating similar challenges.
Early Life and Cultural Roots
Aryanaz's childhood in Iran was filled with rich traditions and experiences, some of which were shaped by the restrictions placed on internet access and exposure to Western media. She says she found solace in the simplicity of her childhood, an experience she now reflects on with gratitude.
“We had limited access to the internet, and while that can be difficult, it allowed me to truly experience childhood,” Aryanaz recalled. “It made me cherish the moments of human connection and community, which are a huge part of Iranian culture.”
Her deep connection to her Iranian roots became a source of strength when she moved to the United States. The sense of community she had grown up with in Iran, where people were always willing to help one another, was something she initially struggled to find after arriving in the U.S. The isolation she felt in her new environment, particularly in high school, highlighted stark differences between the communal warmth of Iran and the more individualistic society in the U.S.
Navigating High School: A Challenge of Integration
Aryanaz’s transition to high school in the United States was challenging, especially as an immigrant. She encountered a different social dynamic that made it difficult to feel fully integrated. “In high school, my classmates were polite, but I didn’t feel included,” she explained. “People were nice to me, but I never felt like they were inviting me in.”
She wasn’t alone in these feelings. With two close friends who also came from diverse cultural backgrounds, Aryanaz found solidarity. They shared the common challenge of being different and connected around these shared experiences.
The rigorous education system in Iran had prepared Aryanaz for advanced concepts in subjects like math and science. Therefore, she spent much of her high school years relearning things she had already mastered. It wasn’t until she began her college career that she encountered new academic challenges.
Overcoming Challenges as an Immigrant and First-Generation Student
As an immigrant and first-generation student, Aryanaz had to navigate a new culture and education system. The transition from high school to college was especially hard because of the different expectations.
Aryanaz faced another obstacle while deciding her academic path. She navigated school and scholarship applications and decisions about what major to choose with little involvement from her family. This process caused her stress as she contemplated the crucial decisions that would set the stage for her academic and professional growth.
“Since childhood, I've been enamored by technology, always drawn to its complexities and possibilities. This lifelong fascination has steered me towards pursuing a major in technology. I chose this field because it offers endless opportunities for innovation and problem-solving,” Aryanaz says.
She explored majors and watched videos about a day in the life of software engineers, coders, and other technology professionals. Then she discovered that Phoenix College offered a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology. Aryanaz was excited that she could continue her education at a college with small classes and access to professors without the high cost of university tuition.
Finding Her Place at Phoenix College
To overcome the academic challenges of college, Aryanaz takes full advantage of the resources available at PC, such as tutoring services at the Learning Commons and professor office hours. “Tutoring has been a lifesaver for me, especially with essay writing,” she admits.
Aryanaz felt immediate connections at PC, especially when she explored the campus library. “I love libraries, and PC’s library has quickly become my favorite place. I spend hours there,” she noted. Beyond the library, Aryanaz found that PC offers experiences that she had not explored previously, including leadership opportunities.
Aryanaz is thriving, thanks also in large part to the scholarships she receives, which alleviated financial pressures and allowed her to focus on her studies. “I still work, but not as much. The scholarships allow me to work less, so I have time to join the Computer Science Club and get more involved. It takes a financial weight off my shoulders.”
Leadership and Building Community: President of the Computer Science Club
One of the most transformative aspects of Aryanaz’s time at Phoenix College has been her involvement in the Computer Science Club, where she now serves as president. Her journey toward this leadership role began organically. During a Python coding class, a fellow student encouraged Aryanaz to join the club. Through the club, Aryanaz honed her technical skills and gained hands-on experience working on real projects.
“We work on everything from building chess games to working on hardware and breaking down and rebuilding computers,” Aryanaz shared. “It’s such a great opportunity to gain practical experience.”
Under Aryanaz’s leadership, the club has grown in membership and influence. With the help of supportive faculty like Professor Jorge Vega, who serves as an advisor and mentor, Aryanaz has transformed the club into a space where students collaborate on projects and prepare for future careers.
Professor Vega’s guidance has been instrumental in Aryanaz’s leadership development and in shaping the future of many club members. “Professor Vega used to be a corporate recruiter, and he always emphasizes how important it is to work on our projects, even if we fail,” Aryanaz noted. “It’s the effort and experience that matter.”
Looking Ahead: Giving Back to Others
As Aryanaz approaches graduation, which she hopes to achieve in the summer of 2025, her focus has shifted to the future and giving back to the community that has supported her. She plans to use her experiences to help other first-generation and immigrant students navigate the same obstacles she once faced.
“I want to help students like me, especially international and first-generation students who are trying to figure out their path,” she said. “It’s important for them to know that they are not alone and that community colleges like Phoenix College can be an incredible stepping stone.”
Her advice to students considering attending a community college is clear and heartfelt. “Community college is a smart choice, especially if you’re not sure what you want to do. Why waste money at a big university if you’re undecided? At a community college, you get smaller classes, more personal attention, and it’s a lot more affordable.”
Aryanaz is keenly aware of the sacrifices her parents made to give her these opportunities, and she carries that responsibility with pride. “My parents left everything behind for me to have a better future. So, I want to make sure I make the most of it,” she says.
Aryanaz Besharatlou’s story is about resilience, determination, and leadership. From her early days in Iran to her future graduation from Phoenix College, she embraces every challenge with a focus on personal growth and giving back to help others. For students unsure about their next academic steps, Aryanaz’s journey is a reminder that community colleges provide affordable education and a community that fosters leadership and personal connections.
“Earning a college degree in Information Technology will equip me with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving industry and world. After graduating, I aspire to work in a dynamic tech environment where I can leverage my expertise to develop innovative solutions that address real-world challenges and drive positive change,” Aryanaz said.
“I’m someone who doesn't want to waste money on something that isn't worth it, and this degree is definitely worth it,” she says with a smile.
Discover your potential at Phoenix College (PC), where first-generation students like Aryanaz thrive with the help of scholarships that make education more affordable and student support services such as the Writing Lab in the Learning Commons. PC students can take advantage of community-building opportunities by joining student clubs (making friends and gaining leadership experience). Ready to take the next step? Start your journey at Phoenix College today.