I’m Zunirah Ishfaq, a Business major with a minor in Education at Dominican University. Originally from Peshawar, Pakistan, I moved to the USA in 2020, bringing with me a deep appreciation for my cultural roots. I thrive on learning and love helping others, whether through collaborative projects or personal connections. My journey at Dominican has been exciting, filled with opportunities to explore my passions while pushing my boundaries.
Beyond academics, I cherish the moments spent with family and friends, where laughter and love are in abundance. I find inspiration in nature, art, journaling, and poetry, which allow me to express myself creatively. Each of these interests helps shape who I am and fuels my desire to make a positive impact on those around me.
As I continue my studies at Dominican, I aim to gain the skills and knowledge needed for a successful career while growing personally. I’m eager to study abroad, participate in internships, and possibly take on leadership roles within student organizations. Most importantly, I hope to make my grandparents and parents proud, setting a positive example for my younger siblings along the way.
Family is a significant part of my life and shapes who I am today. I am the proud daughter of two immigrant parents who made the brave decision to leave our home country to provide a better future for their children. I am grateful for their love and sacrifices.
I am the second eldest of four siblings, each holding a special place in my heart. My older brother is someone I look up to and deeply admire. My younger brother sees me as a guiding figure, and I strive to be someone he can always count on and be inspired by. My youngest sibling, my sister, feels more like a daughter to me; I cherish the bond we share and take joy in watching her grow into her own person.
Together, my family is my foundation and my greatest support system. They have taught me the value of resilience, love, and unity, and I carry these lessons with me in everything I do.
I am proud of my roots in Peshawar, Pakistan, a city rich with history, hospitality, and vibrant traditions. I come from a Pashtun and Shehardari background, which has shaped my values, identity, and sense of community. Growing up in a Muslim household, faith has always been a central part of my life, guiding the way I see the world and interact with others.
I spent the first 13 years of my life in Pakistan, surrounded by the colorful rhythms of daily life, from the aroma of freshly baked naan and chai to the sounds of lively street markets. My upbringing was enriched by multiple languages; I speak Urdu, Hindko, Pashto, Punjabi, and Hindi, each connecting me to different communities and perspectives.
For me, culture is more than traditions, it’s the way stories are passed down, respect is shown to elders, and hospitality is offered to strangers as if they are family. My heritage continues to influence who I am today, giving me a strong sense of belonging while also inspiring me to share my experiences with others.
I have a strong passion for creative expression, which I explore through writing, reading, and poetry. Writing allows me to organize my thoughts and communicate ideas in meaningful ways, while reading exposes me to new perspectives and fuels my imagination. Poetry, in particular, gives me a way to explore emotions and reflect on experiences creatively.
I also enjoy painting and photography, as they let me capture moments, experiment with colors, and express ideas visually. Spending time outdoors, especially taking walks in nature, is another activity I deeply enjoy. It helps me relax, recharge, and find inspiration in the world around me.
Music is a source of both relaxation and motivation, and I especially enjoy listening to Pakistani music. Additionally, I find satisfaction in organizing things, whether it’s arranging my desk, adding things to my calendar, or planning projects, as it helps me stay focused and productive. These hobbies allow me to balance creativity, reflection, and structure in my life.
Failures are part of the journey
Mistakes and setbacks aren’t the end; they are necessary steps in the growth process. Each challenge teaches lessons, builds resilience, and fosters improvement. Embracing failures allows continuous learning, trying, and moving forward with purpose.