Hassan Hashmi, a student at Madison Area Technical College, shared his story as part of the Profiles from the Pack series in an article published on Mar. 25. Hashmi was born in California and raised in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, before returning to the United States to pursue his education and a passion for animal science inspired by his family’s dairy farm.
Hashmi’s experience highlights the challenges and opportunities faced by international students adjusting to life and studies in Wisconsin. As he said, “Culture shock and homesickness are the biggest challenges. I spent two years completely alone in the United States – no family, no holidays, no birthdays with loved ones. Making friends was hard. Sometimes I don’t understand jokes in English, and that can be embarrassing. But you keep learning.” He currently serves as student liaison to the District Board, is a former vice president of Student Senate, and is vice president of the Muslim Student Association.
Hashmi described how speaking Arabic, Urdu, and English has shaped his understanding of people: “Speaking multiple languages opens your mind. It changes the way you understand people, culture, and respect.” He also discussed how growing up on a dairy farm influenced his career ambitions: “I started getting curious about animal health — why animals get sick, how milk is processed and how important veterinarians are on farms.” His future goal is clear: “I want to become a veterinarian… someone who gathers community voices and makes sure they’re heard.”
Madison Area Technical College extends its educational reach across south-central Wisconsin according to its official website. The college features state-of-the-art facilities designed for practical training according to its official website and offers more than 190 associate degrees, technical diplomas, certificates, apprenticeships as well as online options according to its official website. It is affiliated with the Wisconsin Technical College System according to its official website.
The institution aims for open access to quality higher education that fosters lifelong learning among diverse communities according to its official website. Dr. Jennifer Berne served as president alongside the District Board of Trustees according to its official website.
Looking ahead at Madison College’s supportive environment for international students like himself—and reflecting on advice for others—Hashmi said: “Please take advantage of every opportunity at Madison College… Community college is misunderstood back home but it’s actually a place where everyone helps you grow.”
