Juthi Seyda graduated from NOVA’s CCI (Community College Initiative) on May 12th with a Career Studies Certificate in Web Design and Development.
While at NOVA, Juthi explored opportunities in several fields, including social media marketing and IT. She also interned with the NOVA communications team, creating online content, and she worked at one of NOVA’s advising centers, supporting her fellow Nighthawks.
After graduation, Juthi returns to Bangladesh to work with the Ministry of Education to help implement transformative educational projects. She wants to ensure the next generation of Bangladeshi students can access the same opportunities that have shaped her academic and professional journey.
Tell us about yourself and your background.
Before, I studied the arts. I moved here during COVID, and my interest turned to writing, and I started working as a content writer. That's how I found my interest in the marketing and media sector. I also got into IT, which was entirely new to me.
What have you enjoyed most at NOVA?
NOVA has helped me grow both personally and professionally. I'm taking communication and acting as part of my major, so I can learn technical things and make myself more camera-friendly.
From advising to working as an intern in NOVA's Office of Communications, everything came to me as an opportunity. I took whatever I found on my journey, and NOVA helped me believe that America is a land of opportunity.
What is your biggest takeaway about NOVA?
When I came to NOVA, I was surprised by its diversity. I have friends from Afghanistan, Pakistan, Ethiopia, Colombia and Brazil. They're supportive and helpful. Although I often miss my siblings, I have my friends on campus, which helps me feel better and motivates me daily.
What advice would you give to an incoming student?
I always advise other students to find out about opportunities, discover their passions, and pursue them. NOVA is the best place to shape yourself and see what would be valuable for your life. Also, please do not give up on your dreams, no matter how distant they seem. You can do it!
What are your goals after NOVA?
After NOVA, I’m flying back home. I want to use my new knowledge and experience to improve my country’s education system. I aim to work with the Ministry of Education and help them understand: “Hey, this is the need. I have seen how this is happening in America. I want to implement this in my community and for my people.” When I return home, I will represent NOVA, the CCI program, the State Department and everything else.
I am excited that I have graduated. My sister and others in my family still need to complete graduation, so I will be the first to have a degree. I hope they will be proud of me!
Submitted by: Emma Howard, NOVA Student Contributor