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Neam Alazawi

Biography

Profile: Neam Alazawi and her family moved to the United States from Iraq in 2008 and in that brief period she has distinguished herself in her community in Dearborn, Michigan and at nearby Henry Ford Community College.  Neam, a Biology major, registered a 4.0 GPA at Henry Ford and also served as a peer mentor at the college. In addition to her college activities, Neam volunteers in the refugee assistance program for the Arab Community Center for Economic and Social Services, is a member of the Arab American Women's Business Council and is a volunteer for the Boys and Girls Club of Southeastern Michigan. It is Neam’s goal to someday become a physician.

Inspiration:  Since arriving in the U.S. Neam has adjusted to a new culture and language with the help of teachers, friends, neighbors, and countless other people. They all helped “fuel the vehicle to drive me toward my goals.” With the support she received Neam was able to overcome many hardships. “I really do owe my academic success to many people . . . but Dr. Nabeel Abraham, the Honors Program Director at Henry Ford Community College, has been the most supportive.” 

Aspiration:  Her goal is to become a physician.  The next step in the process will be a degree in biology, which she hopes to earn at Wayne State University. Her desire to become a doctor is very personal.  Neam said that when the war in Iraq started, many Iraqis fled to other countries and doctors were unfortunately the first to emigrate, leaving behind many people who suffered from diseases with no medical assistance. “My aunt was one of them; she suffered for two years after being diagnosed with cancer and then passed away. Her death was a wake up call motivating me to make the most of my education to help those without access to physicians. The minute I lost her, I realized that the shortage of doctors leaves many innocent humans in serious need of medical assistance.”

Making a Difference: Neam said she considers tutoring English as a Second Language students, especially newly-arrived refugees, her most significant contribution to society. “Many English learners have difficulties navigating the U.S. education system and adapting to a new environment,” said Neam.  “I provide ESL students with guidance to help them identify and discover their strengths, talents, and abilities.  My main purpose of tutoring English learners is to encourage them to be independent and self-confident.”

Accolades:  Neam was nominated for the All-USA Academic Team in 2010, named to Phi Theta Kappa that same year and is also the recipient of an honors scholarship from Henry Ford Community College.

Interesting Fact:  A lovely singing voice is another of Neam’s qualities.  She said she loves to sing and is easily able to learn lyrics.

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