Meet Soria Mahmoodi: 2023 Graduate, Jalalabad, Afghanistan

Soria Mahmoodi's journey is one of determination, resilience, and the unwavering pursuit of education in the face of adversity. Hailing from the conservative society in Afghanistan, where gender inequality loomed large, Soria's family was one of the few educated families in the community. Despite their education, societal norms still cast their shadow. At a young age, Soria's family made the decision to arrange her marriage, a path that conflicted with her burning desire to continue her education.

In a stroke of fortune, Soria found herself married to a man who valued and supported her education. With his encouragement, she embarked on a path of learning, eager to expand her horizons. However, the volatile security situation in Afghanistan shattered her world. A sudden explosion tragically claimed her husband's life, leaving Soria widowed after only eight months of marriage. The loss was devastating, and her dreams were temporarily put on hold.

By the time she graduated from school, Afghanistan had once again fallen under the shadow of the Taliban. Soria's aspirations were once more suppressed, unable to pursue the bachelor's degree that her late husband had dreamt of achieving. Filled with a sense of hopelessness, she returned to her family's embrace, uncertain of what the future held.

It was during these challenging times that Soria heard whispers of the Eagle Online Academy, a lifeline to her dreams. Enrolling in various online classes, she discovered the power of remote education – the ability to learn from the confines of her home, shielded from distractions and societal barriers.

As her determination grew, so did a longstanding dream she had raised since ninth grade – the dream of joining the prestigious American University of Afghanistan (AUAF). Hearing of a family friend's daughter who had achieved this feat only ignited Soria's desire to achieve the same.

Against the odds, Soria's application to AUAF through the Eagle Online Academy was selected from among 68 candidates. Her elation was immeasurable – a beacon of success illuminating her path. Soria's dreams were transforming into reality, and her belief in herself surged stronger than ever before.

The Eagle Online Academy did more than just provide an education – it breathed life into her hopes during the darkest times. Today, as Soria celebrates her achievement, she carries with her a newfound strength and conviction. Her journey epitomizes the power of education and the human spirit's capacity to rise above challenges. Soria Mahmoodi stands as a testament to the transformational impact of determination and the opportunities that online education can provide, even in the most adverse circumstances.