From a young age, Asma Ajmeri was taught that effort meant more than results.

For example, at 12 years old and after two years of dedication and discipline, she memorized the entire Qur’ān.

“That experience shaped me deeply,” she said. “It taught me patience, consistency and the value of setting a goal and following through, even when it feels difficult. Those lessons continue to guide me in every part of my life.”

I’ve realized through my time at College of DuPage that I am more capable than I once gave myself credit for.

Asma Ajmeri

After finishing middle school, Ajmeri was homeschooled through Acellus Academy and completed high school in one year. Her next step was college, so at the age of 16, she enrolled full-time at both College of DuPage and a private religious college. Her sisters were alumni of COD, so she knew it was the best place to start.

Initially, she wasn’t sure what to pursue, so her goal was to earn an Associate in Science. However, during the pandemic, Ajmeri had turned to baking as a creative outlet. When it turned into something much more meaningful, she began to see it as a career path.

“When I was growing up, my mom would bake brownies out of a box. During COVID, I would find recipes on YouTube and began to make them,” she said. “When I first came to COD, I was a nervous wreck. Being someone who wears a niqāb, a religious face veil, I didn’t know how others would perceive me. In the midst of uncertainty, I learned about COD’s Baking and Pastry Arts program and realized I could turn my passion into a career.”

Still, it wasn’t easy trying to balance both colleges. But one of Ajmeri’s best experiences came in her COD speech class during a time of great stress. She was especially anxious when giving her first speech.

“As the youngest student in class, and because I wear a niqāb, I was uncertain whether I would be taken seriously,” she said. “Once I began, my nerves slowly faded. Afterward, my professor told me, ‘Although we couldn’t see your facial expressions, you expressed your emotions through your words.’ He even said he could see me owning a successful bakery one day.

“The class gave me confidence and helped me believe in myself. From that point on, I stopped doubting whether my dreams were realistic and started focusing on how to make them real. The encouragement reminded me that my voice matters, and my fear of public speaking diminished. It reminded me that I am capable of achieving my goals.”

Ajmeri graduated with highest honors and was named one of the College’s outstanding graduate finalists. Her goal is to pursue a bachelor’s degree in business and earn a certificate in Pastry Arts from COD as she works toward her dream of opening a bakery.

“I want it to be more than just a place that sells desserts. I want it to be a safe space for the community, a place people can walk in feeling down and leave with a smile,” she said.

As for COD, Ajmeri experienced growth that led to a boost in her self-confidence.

“Whenever I set my mind to something, I work persistently until I achieve it, and every step of my journey has been shaped by discipline, faith and a determination to turn my goals and dreams into reality,” she said. “I’ve realized through my time at College of DuPage that I am more capable than I once gave myself credit for.”

Learn more about the Business program at College of DuPage.

Learn more about the Baking and Pastry Arts program.