MCC Daily Tribune
Celebrating International Students' Day
This week, we celebrate SUNY Global Learning for All and International Education Week at MCC! Events throughout the week focus on building connections across our Rochester, MCC, and global communities. Please join us—virtually or in person on the Brighton and Downtown campuses—as we highlight the many ways we are linked to communities around the world. In celebration, we’re also profiling one of our students, Fatima Rezaee, who started at MCC as an international student and whose story exemplifies the global spirit and diverse perspectives that enrich our MCC community.
Fatima Rezaee is in her final semester at Monroe Community College (MCC), pursuing a degree in Business Administration and Management. She is building a strong foundation in leadership, management, and finance to support her future career goals.
After the Taliban banned girls’ education in 2021, Rezaee was barred from attending university—despite being admitted to one of Afghanistan’s top schools on a full scholarship.
“Suddenly, my dream was taken away,” she said. “For 21 months, I was trapped at home, unable to continue my studies, and it felt like living without hope.”
However, Rezaee was determined to pursue her education.
“I searched every possible way to continue my studies abroad,” she said. “When I learned about Monroe Community College, I immediately applied, and being accepted felt like a second chance in life.”
Although leaving Afghanistan was one of the most difficult decisions she had ever faced, Rezaee recognized that coming to the United States and enrolling at MCC gave her a chance to pursue her education and begin rebuilding her future.
Rezaee chose MCC because of its welcoming environment and strong support for international students. “When I was searching for opportunities abroad, MCC stood out as a place where I could grow academically and personally,” she said. “From the beginning, I felt this was the right place for me to start my education again.”
And she was right—Rezaee describes her time at MCC as one of the best experiences of her life.
Although adapting to a new language, culture, and education system was challenging, Rezaee remained determined to keep her promise to herself that nothing would stand in the way of her education.
In addition to her studies, Rezaee is employed by MCC’s Global Education and International Services Department, where she has gained valuable experience that will benefit her future career.
“The professors and staff, especially the office of Global Education and International Services, have supported me so much,” she said. “Working in the same offices as a student assistant gave me the chance to help other international students feel at home, which I found very meaningful.”
Rezaee's personal experiences sparked her interest in business and accounting. “Growing up, I worked at a young age to help support my family, and I saw how important financial management is for stability,” she said. Now, through her banking internship, Rezaee is gaining practical experience that makes her even more passionate about the field.
Ultimately, her goal is to pursue a career in accounting, where she can help individuals and organizations manage their resources effectively. “I also want to serve as a role model for women who face barriers to education, showing that persistence can overcome obstacles,” she said.
After completing her associate degree, Rezaee will continue her studies at Rochester Institute of Technology, where she has already been accepted. She is planning to double major in accounting and management information systems.
When asked what advice she would give current students or those considering enrolling in MCC, Rezaee said, “…never take education for granted. It is a privilege that many people in the world are denied. Even when school feels challenging, it is worth every effort, because education opens doors to the future.”
She added that Afghanistan is home to “resilient, talented, and motivated people, especially girls who continue to dream of education and a brighter future, even under difficult circumstances”.
Photo Caption: Fatima Rezaee standing outside on a sunny day with trees and water in the background.
Attached Files:
Fatima.jpg
Courtney Weimar
Community Relations
11/17/2025