Aseila Awad
Tell us about a time in your life where you overcame an obstacle in your path, found your community, or found your purpose
When I was a freshman and sophomore studying astrophysics and physics, I felt completely alone. I never saw anyone who looked like me, and that lack of representation made me question if I truly belonged in the field of physics. As a Black Muslim woman, I faced many challenges in the real world, and the constant battle against imposter syndrome in school. It came to a point where I started to tell myself that maybe I wasn’t meant to take these courses, that maybe this space wasn’t for me.
Everything changed when I co-founded the National Society of Black Physicists chapter here. In creating this community, I found my own. For the first time, I was surrounded by people who understood my struggles in this specific field. We shared our experiences and uplifted one another. I learned that representation isn’t just important, it’s necessary, and if I couldn’t find it, I would create it.
Where did your journey start?
My journey truly began the day I told my sister that I wanted to give up when I was a freshman. I will never forget the day I sat in our room telling her that this wasn’t for me anymore. I felt out of place, that I didn’t belong, and I was ready to walk away. But she refused to let me, and she reminded me of the love I had for astrophysics, the curiosity that had always driven me, and the fact that I belonged, even if I couldn’t see it yet.
She wasn’t the only one who believed in me; my parents did too. In my Somali household, my mother always repeated the phrase, “strengthen/tighten your stomach,” which figuratively means to be brave, and to always push through. I carried those words with me, and when fear or doubt crept in, I would repeat them to myself.
How did this change you/What did you learn/discover because of this?
When starting the National Society of Black Physicists, my goal was to help others. What I didn’t expect was how profoundly it would help me in return.
Making this space strengthened the love I have for physics in ways I never thought … But more than that, this experience taught me that by lifting others up, I was also lifting myself. And in the process, I discovered that my purpose in physics extends far beyond just my own success; it’s about making sure that those who come after me never feel as alone as I once did.
My advice for other Black students
If you feel like you don't belong, make yourself belong. And if you feel like your voice isn't being heard, there will be others who will listen to that voice—you just have to find them. I wouldn't be where I am today without the faculty who believed in me and my research, ultimately giving me the opportunity to present at a conference. I wouldn't be here without my sister and great friends who forced me to not give up on my love and passion for astrophysics. But none of this happened by chance. I made sure my voice was heard. I put myself out there, sought opportunities, and connected with those who valued what I had to offer. And just as others helped me, I’ve made it my mission to do the same for those who come after me.
So keep pushing forward, because you belong here.