NOTICE: Due to inclement weather, Hunter College will move to remote instruction and remote operations on Sunday, February 22, and Monday, February 23. Students should expect to hear directly from their professors with details on how to attend classes remotely. All non-essential employees should be prepared to work remotely. The Hunter community should monitor email and the Hunter website for updates and additional guidance. Read more.

Safiie

portrait of Safiie
Muse Scholar

My Story

One of the biggest challenges I have faced at Hunter College has been navigating my education as a non-native English speaker. In the beginning, I often felt insecure participating in class discussions or expressing my ideas out loud. Even when I understood the material, I worried that my thoughts would not come across clearly or that I would be judged for my language skills. This sometimes made me hesitate to speak up, ask questions, or fully engage in academic conversations. 

What truly made a difference for me was the support I received from the Hunter community, especially through the MUSE program. Professors and fellow students consistently showed patience, understanding, and encouragement. Instead of feeling pressure to be perfect, I felt supported in the process of learning. This created a safe and welcoming environment where I could ask questions, make mistakes, and grow without fear of being misunderstood or excluded.  

Through this experience, I learned resilience and gained confidence in myself. I began to see that my language journey is not a weakness, but an important part of my personal and academic growth. The kindness and empathy I encountered motivated me to work harder, participate more actively, and believe in my abilities. Being part of the MUSE program helped me realize that growth comes from persistence and support, and it has encouraged me to fully engage in my education while embracing my identity and experiences.