Monterey High School sophomore Shabnam Qayumi aiming to honor her family by becoming a scientist
Shabnam Qayumi
Sophomore at Monterey High School
Monterey High School sophomore Shabnam Qayumi is not only a dedicated student but also an aspiring scientist with a deep sense of purpose. Her journey into the field of biotechnology, a class she is taking this school year, is fueled by both her curiosity and a strong desire to honor the sacrifices made by her family. One day, she hopes to become a neurosurgeon and believes it is a field that will benefit from more diversity.
"What I want to become is because I want to aspire," Shabnam shared. "Others, for example, like my mother, she didn't get to study all years, but now she's supporting me and making sure that I study so that I don't take the same path she did. She wants me to be independent, to be able to support myself without needing someone else to always be there."
Shabnam's parents have played a crucial role in shaping her ambitions. Born in Afghanistan, Shabnam moved to the U.S. when she was just three months old, but her connection to her homeland remains strong.
Her father, who grew up in the Saydabad district of Maidan Wardak Province of Afghanistan, often shared stories of his hardships—raising sheep and cattle while attending a distant school, studying under moonlight because there was no time during the day. His resilience, along with her grandmother’s struggle to raise five children alone after becoming widowed during the Russian invasion of Afghanistan beginning in 1979, has profoundly influenced Shabnam’s outlook on life.
"My grandmother would go hungry just so her kids could eat. She had to be strong in a time when women didn't have much power," Shabnam recalled. "And my mother, she couldn't go to school, but she made sure that I had the opportunities she never had. My parents, my grandmother—they inspire me so much. One day, I hope to give back to them as much as they've given me."
As the eldest of four children, Shabnam feels it is her responsibility to set a strong example for her younger siblings.
"Being an immigrant, being the oldest, and especially a woman, there are so many standards I have to meet. I have to get good grades, be involved in programs, and keep my family’s name respected. But even when the pressure gets real, I remember that my parents worked so hard to give me this life."
Beyond academics, Shabnam is deeply involved in student organizations like the Muslim Student Association, Model United Nations, STEM Up, and she’s participating in the Monterey Academy of Oceanographic Science (MAOS) program. She’s also on the junior varsity soccer team. Shabnam participates in debate club, where she refines her public speaking skills, and is a mentor for younger students, guiding them academically and personally.
Despite her many commitments, Shabnam sometimes feels the pressure that comes with being the eldest child.
“There are days when I just want to rest, but I remind myself that my siblings are watching. I want them to see the best version of me so they know they can also achieve great things,” Shabnam said.
In addition to her academic and extracurricular achievements, Shabnam is deeply involved in her school’s cultural awareness initiatives. She helps organize events that highlight the beauty and richness of her Afghan heritage, educating her peers about a country that is often misunderstood.
“Afghanistan is more than its struggles—it’s a place of history, beauty, and resilience. I want people to see that,” she said.
Her family encourages her to pursue her dreams, and she channels their sacrifices into motivation. Looking to the future, Shabnam aspires to a career that allows her to give back—not just to her family, but to the broader immigrant and refugee community.
"My parents did a lot for me to be here, to have the opportunities I have now. That’s why I keep pushing forward," Shabnam said.
With her passion for science, Shabnam hopes to make a lasting impact in the field and in her community. More than anything, she is determined to honor the legacy of resilience and perseverance that her family has instilled in her.