Graduating student speaker Aisha Anoohi carries on a Wildcat family legacy

Wednesday
Rikki Mioduski, Arizona International
A young woman wearing a light blue shirt and an orange and red graduation stole smiles in front of the University of Arizona Global Center. The building behind her prominently features the U of A logo and the words “Global Center” on a modern metal and brick facade. Trees, desert landscaping, and a few students walking in the background reflect a sunny day on campus, highlighting a celebratory graduation moment.

When Aisha Anoohi steps up to the podium this May as the student speaker for Arizona International’s Global Graduation – International Celebration, she’ll be doing more than marking her academic achievement; she’ll be adding her voice to a family legacy deeply rooted at the University of Arizona.

Originally from Dubai, UAE, Aisha is graduating with a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering, but her Wildcat journey began long before she ever set foot in Tucson. Her father earned his degree at the University of Arizona in the 1980s and has considered Tucson his second home ever since. “He still reads the Tucson news every day,” Aisha shared. “I’ve always loved hearing my father’s stories about his time here.”

That legacy only grew stronger over the years. Two of Aisha’s older sisters also attended the U of A, one studying architecture, the other management information systems, and now her younger sister is on campus as well. “Hopefully my younger brother will join too,” she said with a smile.

After a few years at her previous university, Aisha was looking to transfer to a university that suited her better, and U of A was an obvious choice. “It just made sense,” she explained. “It’s a top research university with a strong engineering program and my family’s experience here made the decision easy.”

Aisha thrived at U of A, quickly becoming immersed in campus life and making the most of opportunities available to her. A standout moment came during her time as a Global Ambassador, a role that allowed her to connect with other students from around the world and strengthen her leadership skills. “It was the best decision I made,” she said. “I met so many people, learned about different cultures, and grew so much in confidence.”

Her academic journey also included two years as an undergraduate research assistant in a neuroscience lab, where she gained hands-on experience and insight into the scientific process. And while navigating a switch in majors and adapting to life as a transfer student presented its challenges, Aisha credits her mentors and peers for making the transition smooth. “People here go the extra mile,” she said. “That support made all the difference.”

As she prepares for life after graduation, Aisha is exploring opportunities in industry—whether in energy, pharmaceuticals, food, or environmental sectors—and is open to working either in the U.S. or back home in Dubai. Her long-term goal is to return to the UAE, but first hopes to gain experience through OPT (Optional Practical Training).

For now, Aisha is savoring the final stretch of her undergraduate years in Tucson, a city she’s come to think of as a second home. “I’ll always be connected to this place,” she said. “There’s something about Tucson, it feels comforting every time I land at the airport.”

Her advice for incoming international students? “Take advantage of everything—clubs, research, the Global Ambassador program. Ultimately, it’s the people you connect with that make your experience memorable. And be sure to immerse yourself in the school spirit!”

This May, as she speaks on behalf of her fellow international graduates, Aisha won’t just be reflecting on her growth and achievements, she’ll be celebrating the generations of Wildcat pride that brought her to this moment, and the global path she continues to forge.