Ishtar Saiyady

My time at GGU was an incredible experience. I was a first-generation college graduate and a refugee, so it was a very holistic experience for me and my family. On my first day, I remember there was an earthquake and I felt like the universe was telling me something. Every day, I would get off the bus and dance my way to campus, feeling so grateful and excited to be there. I had never been exposed to the law before, so I was learning all these new things and never made to feel like I should already know them. Walking on campus for the first time was a spring in my step. I had always wanted to be a lawyer and use my voice to advocate for those who don't have one. I learned more about my voice and my strengths while at GGU, and I was exposed to so much innovation and information that I was able to use to become an advocate for reproductive justice rights. I am most grateful for the sense of community and the ability to access professors, and for my family being there for my graduation ceremony. It was an amazing experience that I will never forget.

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