Rasa
Rasa became the Arts & Humanities division's Outstanding Student of the Year thanks to his passion for music performance.
When Rasa moved to the U.S. in 2010, he knew he wanted to enroll in college. Growing up in Iran, he studied English in school and practiced by learning the lyrics of Pink Floyd and other rock bands.
“I looked for a community college where I could study English and practice my music,” recalls the 26-year-old violinist, who’s played since he was 5. “I chose HCC, because I could not believe how many amazing musicians were teaching here.”
During his time at HCC, the arts and humanities division named Rasa Outstanding Student of the Year. Today he’s a music performance scholarship student at Duquesne University, on his way to achieving his long-term goals of earning a doctorate, playing in a string quartet, and teaching at a university.
“I’m grateful I started my U.S. education at HCC, where the faculty members are experienced performers who encourage you, help you improve, and truly care about your success,” Rasa says.