Maryam Gharmal, a rising junior majoring in public health with a minor in biology at Fairfield University, has been honored with an undergraduate scholarship from the American Association of University Women (AAUW)'s Bridgeport Area Branch this year, marking a significant milestone in her educational journey.

Gharmal’s path to this prestigious award began in August 2021 when she arrived in the United States from Afghanistan, seeking safety and educational opportunities. In Afghanistan, pursuing education as a young woman is fraught with challenges, yet Gharmal graduated high school with a 4.0 GPA. Her father, a staunch advocate for women's rights and a collaborator with the U.S. government, faced threats for his activism, further complicating her educational journey.

Evacuated by U.S. forces, Gharmal and her family spent three months on a military base before settling in Connecticut. Captivated by the opportunities and freedoms in her new home, she chose Fairfield University for its location and academic standing. The educational opportunities in healthcare in the U.S. have been transformative for her, opening previously closed doors.

“My experiences in Afghanistan have made me acutely aware of the challenges of accessing healthcare and the high costs of treatments,” said Gharmal. “This awareness motivates me to dream of creating a facility in Afghanistan that offers free healthcare services.”

Gharmal has immersed herself in campus activities, becoming a leader in multiple clubs. She currently serves as the president of the Muslim Student Association (MSA), vice president of the South Asian Student Association (SASA), international global officer for the Girl Up Club, and is a member of the Humanitarian Action Club. Her dedication and leadership at Fairfield have earned her several awards, including the Sophomore Award (Young Visionary Award) and the Mentor of the Year Award.

Receiving the AAUW Undergraduate Scholarship Award is a testament to Gharmal's hard work and dedication. “The AAUW Award recognizes academic performance and personal qualifications, and being awarded this recognition means a lot to me, coming from a country where girls' efforts often go unrecognized,” she said.

This fall, Gharmal plans to join the AFSO organization and assist a Fairfield University professor in teaching Afghan girls online, enabling them to earn college credits. She also intends to host a campus event to showcase Afghanistan's beauty, raise awareness about the challenges Afghan girls face, and fundraise for their education. Currently, she works as a pharmacy technician and at the Center for Social Impact at Fairfield University, with aspirations to pursue a healthcare career where she can support her community, help her Afghan people, and drive positive changes in healthcare in Afghanistan.

The American Association of University Women, officially founded in 1881, is a non-profit organization that advances equity for women and girls through advocacy, education, and research. For more information about the AAUW, visit the website.