Fardin Imami
San Juan Unified School District, Adult Education
Nominated in 2025
I am pleased to introduce you to Fardin Imami, an extraordinary adult education student. I asked him if he would allow me to nominate him to Students Succeed. He agreed, so I asked him to review the Students Succeed site and other students’ winning nominations. He was inspired by what he read. I asked him to write about his own journey in education. We collaborate here to give you an honest and noble account of his personal growth.
Fardin began his essay by telling me he knew he needed an education to give him the power to change his life and transform experiences. It is this firm belief that has motivated and moved him for years. “I am honored to be nominated as a GED student this year. I am currently a student at San Juan Adult Education, where I have been guided and supported by my dedicated teacher, Lois Rhodes. My path has been filled with challenges, but through determination, resilience, and the support of my teachers, I have made significant progress in achieving my goals.”
“Before joining my adult education program, I faced many obstacles. I came to the U.S. from Afghanistan in 2021. Adjusting to a new country was challenging, especially because I didn’t speak English fluently. Finding work was difficult without strong language skills, and I had to take on physically demanding jobs to support myself. I also struggled with understanding the education system and finding the right resources to continue my studies. Being far from my family and adapting to a new culture made me feel isolated at times. Despite these challenges, I remained determined to improve my education and build a better future for myself.”
Fardin explained that educational opportunities in Afghanistan were limited. While public schools provided free education and taught fundamental subjects, access to higher education was formidable. Those who wanted to attend college often had to enroll in private institutions, which were expensive and unaffordable for many families. In contrast, he highlighted the educational system in the US, saying, “Here, there are many opportunities for education, with resources and support available to help students succeed.” “English is not my first language,” Fardin explained. I struggled in the US with reading, writing, and communication. And that was why I started taking ESL classes at San Juan Adult Education in 2022. I entered at the Beginning High level. I kept studying and became better in my English. I was able to move to Intermediate level and then to a high level class to prepare me to enter GED classes. My ESL classes helped me strengthen my English language skills and gain confidence in communication.”
Stacey McVicker, ESL and Pre-GED teacher said, “Fardin was one of the most hard-working, dedicated students I have ever had. He was always positive and motivated. He completed his adult education coursework while working and helping with his siblings. He deserves all recognition for his achievements.” His CASAS test showed so much progress in May 2024 and he became a student in my GED Prep class. He was unrelenting in his vision to succeed and by that summer he studied and passed two GED tests (science and social studies). He enrolled for the 2024-2025 school year, and passed the GED math test - a great accomplishment!
“I also had to balance my job as a package handler at UPS while preparing for my GED. I willingly took the 3:30 A.M. shift so that I would finish in time to join the afternoon GED Prep classes. Despite these difficulties, I was determined to build a better future for myself.”
Family is very important to Fardin. He helps support his family here in the US as well as in Afghanistan. He wants to share what he has to make their lives better. Not long after he became my student, I noticed he had a young child sitting next to him in the classroom. I asked if she was his daughter. He said she was a niece, but a family emergency occurred, and he needed to keep her with him until her father returned from the hospital. Fardin was calm and busy studying while the child enjoyed coloring and reading a book for that short time. The two worked quietly side-by-side.
Fardin assessed his journey this way: “Through hard work and perseverance, I successfully passed the GED tests in social studies, science, and math. The language arts section has been the most challenging for me, but I refuse to give up. My teachers have been a great source of encouragement, helping me improve my reading comprehension and essay writing skills. I have continued to push myself to improve my skills. This is my dedication to learning and personal growth.”
“Being part of this program has not only improved my academic skills but also strengthened my confidence. I now believe in my ability to succeed and pursue my dream of becoming an electrical power engineer. I am exploring Sacramento City College to work toward this goal. This journey has taught me the value of hard work, the importance of education, and the power of perseverance. I have learned that education is a lifelong process, and every challenge is an opportunity to grow.” I believe he is the embodiment of a true scholar.
Fardin declares that one of the most rewarding aspects of his journey has been the friendships he has built along the way. “My classmates and teachers have become a source of motivation and support. We encourage one another to push forward, and I have seen how education can create strong communities. Learning in an adult education setting has shown me that no matter where you come from or what challenges you face, you can always move forward with the right mindset and support system.”
“I am incredibly grateful for the support I have received from my teachers and the adult education community. Lois Rhodes and the faculty at San Juan Adult Education have played a crucial role in my success. Their guidance has helped me overcome my fears (as it is easy to worry and wonder, “What if I don’t pass the test!?”) and push forward toward my goals. I hope to inspire others who face similar struggles, proving that with determination and support, anything is possible.”
Fardin told me that being nominated for this award is a great honor, and it motivates him to continue striving for success, “I am excited about what the future holds, and I am committed to making a meaningful impact in my field and community. I want to use my experiences to help others who may be facing the same difficulties I did. Every challenge I have faced has made me stronger. By sharing my story, I hope to encourage others to never give up on their dreams, no matter how hard the journey may seem.” Fardin hopes others recognize that getting an education will change their lives. As a true scholar, he requested that his story be shared with other classes, teachers and students.
Fardin said, “Thank you for considering me for this recognition.” And I, as well, thank you for the privilege of nominating Fardin Imami, a most inspirational student.
Lois Rhodes, GED Prep Teacher from San Juan Adult Education, Sunrise Tech Center
Fardin included this poem by an anonymous author in his initial class essay a year ago (retrieved from the internet):
In the pursuit of dreams, we strive,
Through challenges, we learn to thrive.
With every step, we dare to rise,
Towards the stars, past boundless skies.
Success, a journey, not just a goal,
Fueled by passion, from deep in the soul.
Through valleys low and peaks so high,
We conquer fears and touch the sky.
Each victory, a story to tell,
Of resilience, of strength as well.
In the tapestry of life, success we weave,
With every moment, daring to believe.
