Leaving Claremont and venturing into the bustling metropolis of NYU is no easy task but for Afiya Imam, it poses no challenge. Ready to tackle anything the big apple throws at her, Imam is sure to shake things up in New York. Always prepared for a stroll in Washington Square Park and a chance to encounter her favorite celebrities like R&B singers Raveena and Giveon New York life is not as daunting to her as one would think.

It seems like NYU’s campus is actually more inviting to Imam than most. She actually finds the concept of the “no-campus” at NYU intriguing with the campus being located inside the heart of New York City. This coupled with NYU’s diverse population is what drove her to decide on this institution above the illustrious George Washington University and Boston University. The possibilities of big city life and the less restrictive setting allow Imam to flex her creative muscles.

Imam looks to major in psychology but is on the pre-med track at NYU. Her initial interest began in her junior year as she took the psychology class here at CHS. NYU gives her the perfect chance to express her desire to be either a pediatrician or a psychiatrist.

Imam’s acceptance to NYU came as a complete shock to her. Fully braced to accept rejection from her dream school, Imam opened up the letter on her IPad in the middle of her English class despite spotty school wifi. Seconds passed and she shouted with joy and complete elation as she read of her acceptance.

“I did not think I would be accepted [to NYU] so I came to terms with it as I got my friends hotspot and finally got the letter to load,” Imam said. “I screamed and everyone turned to me all scared and I was like ‘I got in!’, it was a really amazing moment being surrounded by friends.”

Imam’s talents do not just end at her academic pursuits but they continue with her passion for the arts. A museum-lover who takes time to appreciate art, an experienced player of the viola, a painter, a frequent reader, and even a recreational basketball player; it is a wonder what Imam cannot do!

As Imam looks onto her future, she is excited for the endless exploration opportunities that traveling cross-country can provide. Imam extends some words of wisdom to future college applicants, referencing her own missteps in the college application process.

“Start early!” Imam said. “I had to cancel my skiing plans to cram on my applications.”

Imam also wanted to give a shoutout to those who assisted her along the way.

“Lyna Bui, she has been there since day one and my sisters, I am so thankful for their guidance and help throughout everything, not just the admissions process!” Imam said.