Madiha Pashtoon is a driven and accomplished student at Irvine Valley College (IVC), majoring in Political Science with a profound motivation rooted in her father's career as a diplomat. A graduate of University High School in Irvine, Madiha aspires to attend either the University of California, Irvine, or the University of California, Los Angeles, to further her education in pursuit of a career in international relations and law, with a focus on advocating for global minorities.

Despite the rigorous demands of her academic journey, Madiha has excelled, earning a coveted place on the Dean's List at both Irvine Valley College and Saddleback College. Her dedication to academic excellence has been recognized through various scholarships, including the Brendan Jundanian Memorial Endowed Scholarship, the City of Irvine Educational Partnership Fund Scholarship, and the Osher Endowed Scholarship. Madiha's commitment to both her studies and personal growth is evident in her maintenance of a flawless 4.0 GPA, even while undertaking up to 19 units in a semester.

Throughout her time at IVC, Madiha encountered the challenge of balancing her packed schedule, juggling demanding coursework, extracurricular engagements, and personal responsibilities. Through perseverance and strategic time management, she successfully navigated this hurdle, honing her ability to prioritize tasks and allocate her energy efficiently.

Madiha's involvement in extracurricular activities has enriched her student experience and contributed to her personal and academic development. As the Newsletter Coordinator for the Honors Program and an active participant in various student organizations and initiatives, including the Guided Pathways Oversight Workgroup and IVC LeGal, she has demonstrated her commitment to fostering positive change within the IVC community.

The IVC Honors Program and research opportunities have played a pivotal role in Madiha's preparation for future endeavors. Engaging in rigorous honors courses and participating in research conferences have equipped her with invaluable skills and experiences, further fueling her passion for advocacy and research.

To incoming students, Madiha offers sage advice: “Get involved in everything that catches your eye. College is like a buffet of opportunities, and the more you sample, the richer your experience becomes. Don't limit yourself to just academics but rather join clubs, attend workshops, volunteer for causes you care about, and participate in events. It's through these experiences that you'll truly discover your passions, work on your skills, and create valuable connections that could last a lifetime.”