Studying biology to become a teacher

Some people study biology to move on to medical school, to become a physical therapist, a veterinarian, a pharmacist, a researcher.

Some study biology to become a high school teacher.

“I’m one of those people,” Hajir Al Obaidi told the San Diego Education Fund Board of Directors March 10.

A graduate of Mira Mesa High School, Hajir studies biology as an undergraduate at San Diego State University. When that degree is finished, she will begin the teaching credential program.

Earlier, when applying for scholarships, Hajir had received multiple rejection letters. Her high school counselor recommended that she apply for a San Diego Education Fund scholarship and she succeeded.

The recurring scholarship payments help cover the cost of recurring tuition fees, Hajir said.

Beyond the financial assistance, the guidance she receives from San Diego Education Fund leaders is invaluable as neither of her parents had received a degree from a college in the United States.

Hajir looks forward to get-togethers to interact with board members who were once San Diego Education Fund scholars.

“Hearing advice from all of you hearing about your experiences when you were in our shoes is really enlightening,” she said.