It is what I was hoping for and what I most wished for. It’s been four years of hard work and emotions. University was my dream. I have been waiting for this moment all my life. 

- Why did you decide to study Journalism at UPF?

When I did the university entrance exam for the over 25s, the war in Syria was just breaking out. At first, news didn’t filter through, but then there was a boom of information difficult to digest. Each of the media gave a different version of the facts. I wanted to know the truth and, why not, discover it for myself.

- What did you like most about the degree?

Knowledge, investigating, learning: the degree has helped me to feel stronger. I don’t know how to explain it, it has opened my eyes and given me independence and strength. And also meeting new people who have become friends.

- Yours is a story of overcoming the odds. How did you come to Barcelona?

In Syria, we Kurds did not have Syrian nationality and that prevented me from studying at university. After completing high school, the Government didn’t let me do university studies because I had no identity papers. That was when I decided to get out of the country and I came to Barcelona with my partner. 

- Why couldn’t you study at university in Syria?

 Because I am Kurdish. 

- The process of adaptation to your new situation in Barcelona must have been difficult.

Yes, it was very difficult. First because I was young, I didn’t know anyone, just my partner. It was complicated because I didn’t know the language. In addition, the fact of being away from the family also affects you. But little by little, I started getting over the setbacks. 

- In 2016 you were on the verge of having to abandon your studies. What happened? 

My residence permit expired a year before graduating at university and to renew it the Ministry asked me for my Syrian papers. After a few months without papers, I was able to solve the situation by publicizing my case through the media and social networks.

- Now that you’ve finished, what challenges are you posing yourself for the future?

Well, I’d like to work as a journalist here, or return to Syria to work as a journalist for the media here. Right now I am doing translations and I’m looking for something in the world of journalism, but it’s not easy to find work. 

- This week is the start of registrations for new students; what advice would you give them for their period at university?

I would tell them to study and do lots of internships. To enjoy every second at university, every class. And not to forget to have fun with their classmates.