Name: Sameia Rahmath
Position: Student, Part-Time Employee
Years with LSC-University Park: Two years

Sameia Rahmath was born in India, but raised in Qatar. She moved to the U.S. only two years ago. She is currently in her second year at LSC-University Park and intends to graduate with an Associate of Arts before transferring to University of Houston's Bauer College to study business. She is the eldest of two daughters and her hobbies include writing, research, and watching philosophical and faith-based lectures. 

How did you arrive at LSC-University Park? 
When I first moved to Houston, I was really confused about which university or college to attend. My cousin, who was a student, introduced me to LSC-University Park. She was kind enough to drive me to the college to visit, and we met with an advisor who explained the entire admissions process. After much more research and considering life factors, I chose LSC-University Park as my college.

What does Women’s History Month mean to you? 
To me, Women’s History Month celebrates how far women have come, honors our accomplishments, and looks ahead to the new heights women can achieve individually and collectively. The month also serves as a source of strength and inspiration for the girls and women who will be the game changers of our society in the future. This all adds to a sense of belonging and empowerment for women to live meaningful and fulfilling lives.

Why is it important that we celebrate women’s history?
I think there is no doubt that every girl and woman has faced the notion that women are second-place to men. Even in history books, the narrative is dominated by male figures, and for the longest time, women were underappreciated for their roles in society. Celebrating Women’s History Month reminds the world that women across a diverse spectrum have made many contributions, from a small scale ranging to big social and political achievements. Women’s History Month is an opportunity to educate ourselves about women and their stories that have left an impact. Additionally, celebrating women’s history brings light to the prevalent issues women face in their daily lives, opening conversations that can potentially make a change, closing gaps in society and challenging the societal norms that limit women. 

Who has been a big female influence or role model in your life?
My mother is the biggest female role model in my life. From her life story, her sacrifices, to her achievements, she inspires me every day to be a kind, strong, independent woman. My mother has taught me how to live and she is the strongest woman I know. I don’t know what I would do without her. There is never a day that goes by that I am not grateful to have an amazing and beautiful woman I call mamma in my life who has made me who I am. She is my No. 1 well-wisher and supporter.

Describe the importance of pursuing education as you were growing up?
Growing up, my faith and my parents instilled in me the importance of seeking knowledge and education to learn and grow. Everyone deserves an equal opportunity to pursue an education. It was emphasized in my childhood that education not only would help in being a well-rounded individual, but also to stand on my own feet to make it in this world. Financial security and a good career will eventually lead to improving the quality of life of an individual as it broadens one’s horizon to wonderful opportunities and stability.

What challenges have you overcome?  
As I completed my high school education outside of the U.S., settling down while assimilating to the college was a challenge for me at first. I had to learn a lot of things, like what credit hours meant, how the transfer process works, what FAFSA is, and how the system works here, all while emotionally accepting my new home. However, I am grateful to God, my family and all the resources I was provided along the way that led me to overcome these challenges. Also, I’d like to give a shout-out to my professors who encouraged me and supported me with any questions or concerns, and made me feel comfortable and welcomed!

What is your message for the women of LSC-University Park?
You have a purpose. You are you and you are in the right place at the right time for a reason. Make the most of it. Be grateful, be patient, be courageous, be strong, be kind, be powerful. Everything is written and know that nothing worth having comes easy. So, take your shot at life, make mistakes, experience, and take care of yourself. Good things and bad times are all a part of life, and everything that you go through is in your favor and making you the person you are destined to be! Make yourself and your family proud. You are a star; shine bright, sis!

What is your six-word story?
Trust God. Be kind. Work hard.