For Jawaria Ashraf, dreams of higher education sometimes felt like distant stars—somewhat out of reach. Yet, with unwavering determination, resilience and the support of her family, she turned her dreams into reality, becoming the first in her family to pursue higher education and a PhD in the United States. Ashraf recently began her first year as a doctoral student in the policy and organizational development program with a concentration in adult and organizational development in the College of Education and Human Development (CEHD) at Temple University. Her story is one of perseverance, self-reliance and a testament to the transformative power of education. 

At a young age, Ashraf had limited access to good educational opportunities. "I am from a lower middle-class family in Pakistan. My parents moved to the urban area for jobs and for me to get a better education," she says. This pivotal decision marked the beginning of her journey, but it was just the first step on a long road to academic success. 

"I had never traveled outside my city, let alone to another country," she recalls. Coming from a conservative culture where women's education is often not prioritized, especially at the higher levels, Ashraf faced significant cultural and financial obstacles. Despite this, her father always encouraged her, telling her she could go anywhere in the world if she worked hard enough. "He never held me back," she says. "He never told me to stay at home like many fathers in Pakistan might. He always supported my dreams." 

Ashraf holds a bachelor's degree in social sciences and a master's degree in public administration with human resources from the University of Karachi. She also earned a master of philosophy in organizational psychology from the Institute of Business Management in Pakistan. While studying for her second master's degree, she worked multiple jobs to save money, knowing that financial independence was key to realizing her dream of studying abroad. Over the course of several years, she saved enough to apply for scholarships and fund her move to the U.S. 

When she received the news that she had been accepted into the doctoral program at Temple University, fully funded, Ashraf was overwhelmed. "It felt like a dream," she says. "It was such an incredible feeling to know that all my hard work had paid off." Ashraf's arrival in the U.S. marked her first time traveling outside of Pakistan. While it was a nerve-wracking experience, she was ready to embrace it. 

Despite being new to campus and the city, Ashraf has found her footing and is thriving at Temple. She said she particularly appreciates the teaching methods in the U.S., where the focus is on interaction and debate rather than passive listening. "In Pakistan, classes were often just the professor talking while we sat there taking notes. But here, it's different," she said. "We engage with the material, participate in discussions, and really think critically. It's amazing how fast three hours in class can go when you're fully involved."  

In addition, Ashraf says she can't say enough about her love for the historical perspective of Philadelphia. "The origination of the United States came from this city, and I think I'm blessed to be here," she notes. "My roommate has been calling me 'a Philly girl,' because I am here now." 

Ashraf has immersed herself in her studies and life in the U.S. while taking on the additional role as a research assistant, working with Professor of Policy, Organizational and Leadership Studies Armando Estrada; Associate Dean for Research and Faculty Affairs and Professor Christine Woyshner; and Associate Dean of Student Success and Associate Professor Jennifer Johnson. "Working with three different professors in my first year is a huge achievement for me," she explains. "I'm getting to learn from experts in my field, and it's helping me grow, both academically and professionally." 

Beyond academics, Ashraf is passionate about two causes that have shaped her journey, women's empowerment and the fight against harassment. Growing up in a place where harassment was common in public spaces, she says she has found solace in the respect and freedom she experiences in the U.S. so far. "In Pakistan, as a girl and a woman, it's common to be stared at or harassed just walking down the street. But here, people respect your space, and that's a relief," she says. 

Ashraf's long-term goal is to become a professor at a leading U.S. university and then return to Pakistan with her pool of knowledge. She sees education not only as a personal achievement, but also as a means to empower others. "I want to empower every student I work with, just like my professors and advisors have empowered me. Whether they want to be a researcher, a painter, or a dancer, I want them to know that their dreams are valid and achievable." 

Ashraf's story is one of breaking barriers—cultural, financial, and societal. From Pakistan to Philadelphia, she has proven that with perseverance, self-belief and support, dreams can become reality. Her success is not just in her academic accomplishments, but also in the example she sets for others, especially young women who dare to dream beyond the confines of their circumstances. 

As she continues her journey at Temple University, Ashraf remains focused on her goals. "My hope is to one day return to Pakistan and work in women's education and empowerment, so that more girls like me can achieve their dreams. I want to show them that anything is possible."