International Students from Pakistan Reflect on Year One at FSU

This academic year, FSU welcomed four talented new international undergraduates from Pakistan, each choosing Florida State as their path forward for their academic and professional goals. Among them are Anum Akbar, an economics major, Malaika Hyder, who is studying information and communication technology, Mafaza Saddique, a computer science and mathematics major and Muhammad Hannan Arif, a pre-physics and astrophysics student.

When asked how they discovered FSU and why they chose it, Akbar emphasized the strong academic and financial support available. “I found [FSU] to be the best school in the state for my major,” she shared. “FSU offered more academic opportunities and events compared to other schools I looked into, along with the best scholarships. The CGE ISSS team was also incredibly supportive, making everything easy to navigate even before I arrived.”

Hyder and Saddique both learned about FSU through a high school teacher in Pakistan. Neither had heard of FSU before and Hyder noted that FSU aligned well with her priorities. “I chose FSU because of the balance between academics and extracurriculars, which was really important to me in high school.” She continued, “After researching my options, FSU quickly became my top choice, and once I received my offer, I knew this was where I wanted to be.”

Both students recalled the initial adjustment period as exciting yet challenging. Akbar described her early days as a “fever dream,” referencing feelings of loneliness while adapting to a new culture, academic system and communication style. Hyder experienced similar culture shock but found comfort as she settled in. “I realized that we’re all just people,” she reflected. “Even though we grew up in different countries, we still share so many childhood memories and experiences.” She also laughed while recalling her early days navigating campus with Google Maps. “At first, everything felt huge, but now I can get around with my eyes closed.”

Outside the classroom, both students have embraced campus life and built strong connections. Akbar became involved with the South Asian Student Association (SASA) and fondly recalled a spontaneous late-night beach trip with friends. One of Hyder’s most memorable moments was her sorority reveal with Multicultural Greek Council sorority Alpha Kappa Delta Phi. “I felt so loved,” she said. “My arms were full of flowers, and it was such a joyful celebration with my friends.”

Friends and family back home follow along through regular check-ins and social media updates. Akbar enjoys sharing her FSU experience, especially with her father, who has a strong interest in computer science and artificial intelligence. She often sends photos from events like the Google Gemini pop-up at the Student Union and talks about unique campus offerings, such as the ASLC, joking, “What university around the world can say, ‘Oh yeah, we have a cinema.’” Hyder similarly keeps her family and friends connected by filling her Instagram stories with highlights from her life at FSU, allowing them to stay up to date and feel part of the experience. Hyder also is recommending to the seniors at her high school to consider FSU when looking at universities.

Looking ahead, both students are eager to deepen their involvement at FSU. Akbar plans to take a lighter course load next semester to further explore campus opportunities, while Hyder hopes to join major-related clubs, expand her involvement in her sorority and take part in ASLC events connected to her interest in film.

The CGE is proud to watch international students like Akbar and Hyder find their stride, build community and make their mark on the FSU campus.