Aisha Choudhry, 21, of Crown Point, graduates this May with a bachelor’s degree in psychology.

Choudhry chose to follow a family tradition and enroll at IU Northwest. “I was most attracted to its academic reputation,” she said, “as well as having several family members, whom I respect and look up to, that attended here ahead of me.”

Choudhry says her psychology coursework gave her important insights into her own mind. Also pursuing a pre-professional track, Choudhry's prerequisites did the job of getting her quickly accepted into IU School of Dentistry in Indianapolis, where she begins this July. IU Northwest is known for its 90 percent acceptance rate into medical school programs, compared to 37 percent nationwide.  

“I understand why people behave a certain way, and how to interact and build relationships with others,” she said. “I have learned such valuable lessons that have allowed me to better connect with students, staff, and faculty members.”

During her freshman year, Choudhry quickly found that college classes, and especially the pre-professional track she was pursuing, required a lot more effort than high school classes, making time management a challenge. At first, she found it difficult to stay on top of her class load. Gradually, however, she developed a routine. “I was able to find a way to manage my schedule wisely, and even carve out some downtime,'” she said. “Once I mastered that, I was able to go out with my friends on most Friday nights, which definitely helped keep my mind fresh and clear.”

IU Northwest scholarships and getting involved in student organizations were a key part of Choudhry’s positive experience. She received the IU Northwest Special Academic Scholarship, the Mitch Daniels Early Graduation Scholarship, and the Lakeshore Region Dr. William A. Shields Scholarship. An elected member of the Student Government Association, Choudhry also participated in the Student Alumni Association and National Society of Leadership and Success.

“I am forever grateful for the scholarships I received,” she said. “And, I have been very involved on campus with student activities, which have allowed me to make strong friendships and connections with other students."

Choudhry’s journey from Lake Central High School to the IU School of Dentistry “was not a straight road,” she said. Rather, “it was filled with many twists and turns.” These detours, however, made her goal of graduating much sweeter. “Everybody’s journey is different,” she said, “The detours made my accomplishments much more valuable and helped me to become a stronger person.”