Farzad, an Iranian immigrant who now calls Louisville, Kentucky home, will graduate in May with a major in government. This is his second year as a designated GOLD Scholar.

Originally interested in physics, Farzad was drawn to Hamilton for its open curriculum, but wasn’t sure it was a realistic option. “There was a period in my life when I had lost all hope of fulfilling my dreams of attending a prestigious college. … When I received my acceptance letter and financial aid package, I was so honored and stunned to be presented with such an opportunity.”

An Introduction to Political Theory course with Professor Robert Martin during the first semester marked the beginning of Farzad’s academic shift. During fall 2014 semester, he participated in Hamilton’s Program in Washington, D.C. with Ambassador Ned Walker, before heading to Copenhagen for a semester to study European politics. He notes that Copenhagen “was an amazing experience. I learned a lot and can’t wait to go back.” However, even with his change of major to government, Farzad has retained an abiding interest in science and entrepreneurship. Ultimately, he hopes “to dedicate my life to space exploration. This is my ultimate passion.”

Farzad works as a multimedia intern and student manager for the Library and Information Technology Services department. He co-founded the Hamilton Investment Club and started two companies while a student; his second, Monitordroid, which allows 24/7 access to devices via a web-based interface, is a registered corporation in Delaware. Farzad has also served as vice president of the Hamilton Space Society, been a class representative to Student Assembly (Spring 2014), participated in intramural soccer and been a member of the Start Up Club.

Farzad’s academic and extracurricular experiences have each contributed to his ability to deal with change and challenge, develop time management skills and assume a leadership role. And he finds inspiration from those who have helped make these experiences possible. “When I become cynical of the world, I always remember the Hamilton donors who made my life so amazing. They serve as a role model and I hope to one day give back to society in the same way that they gave so much to me.”