Syed Hassan, ’25 BA

Ten years ago, I never imagined I would be where I am today. Despite being an online student, my academic journey at Arizona State University has been nothing short of transformative. One thing I have learned through online learning is that self-education is absolutely possible—especially with the right support system. For me, that meant being able to complete my degree from my parents’ home, which has been a true blessing, especially in today’s economy. One of my favorite memories was the moment I discovered I could actually go to school for Film and Media Studies—it was like my inner child screamed, “OMG, I can be part of the Marvel, DC or Harry Potter universe!” That realization lit a fire in me I didn’t know I had. Another highlight was working on game narrative design and learning to analyze films through different academic and cultural lenses—it made me fall in love with storytelling all over again. In the beginning, I was skeptical about signing up for what felt like a big “contract” with my future, but ASU offered one of the best senses of virtual community I’ve ever experienced. I grew not only as a student, but as a person—becoming more confident, capable, and ready to play a productive and constructive role in society. I will always look back fondly on the professors who encouraged me, the classmates I collaborated with virtually, and the growth that helped turn this milestone into a reality.