My parents and I came to the United States from Iran as political refugees when I was 2 years old. I have lived in California for the majority of my life but was born in Tehran, Throughout my childhood my father often shared stories of my grandmother who managed a school for disadvantaged women in Iran and later broadened her career in the field of social work. Hearing of her devotion started my interest in public service. While attending high school I became involved with Random Acts of Kindness, a youth organization centered on serving the community through charitable acts such as organizing fundraisers, food drives and raising awareness of important issues that affect high school youth. Taking part in encouraging the practice of good will in school as well as in the larger community solidified my belief that dedicated individuals working in collaboration can have a positive impact on the lives of many.
During my academic career in the field of political science at the University of California Davis I realized that increasing my understanding of decisions that strongly affect the public is the key to achieving my goal to serve the community which is why I am currently attending McGeorge School of Law where I am the Founder and President of the Public Public & Administration Society (PPAS). As an Iranian-American woman I owe it not only to myself but to others to use my platform to help others and raise awareness.