Safia Karimi is pursuing a degree in Intelligence and Security Studies after her upbringing in Pakistan helped shaped her unique perspective in this field. She has earned placements on the Dean’s List and received Gold Star awards. Karimi is the President of the Skydiving Club. Following graduation, she plans to further my education with a master’s in International Affairs and Statecraft at the Institute of World Politics.

Why did you choose The Citadel?

After graduating from high school, I had to make a difficult decision. I wanted to join the military, but given my background, it was impossible. I was given the option to go to a military college and get military experience or go to a regular school, get a degree and live an everyday life. However, I wanted to challenge myself and experience something that many never dare to face. The Citadel was the perfect crucible to forge my character and abilities. Its rigorous military structure, demanding academic programs and emphasis on leadership development aligned perfectly with my aspirations. I chose The Citadel not for an easy path but for the opportunity to test my limits and transform myself from a student into a leader. The Citadel offered me not just an education but a transformation. It promised to strip away my comforts, challenge my preconceptions and rebuild me into someone more robust, disciplined and better equipped to face the complex challenges of our world. In choosing The Citadel, I decided to embrace discomfort, seek out adversity and emerge capable of making a real difference in the world.

What does receiving the senior ring symbolize for you, and how does it reflect your journey over the past four years?

Receiving the senior ring symbolizes my triumph over adversity and represents not just my dreams but those of generations before me. As the first in my family to attend college, this ring embodies the challenges I’ve overcome, from the demands of knob year to cultural adjustments and homesickness. My journey from Pakistan to Afghanistan and finally to the United States was filled with obstacles, but I refused to sink, and each challenge strengthened my resolve. The Citadel pushed me to my limits, transforming me into a leader and thinker. This ring is more than jewelry; it’s a battle scar and a promise to continue striving for excellence. It reminds me of my capability to achieve the impossible and honors the sacrifices made for my education. As I wear it, I carry the weight of my journey, the strength of my heritage and the responsibility to make a difference in the world. This ring marks not an end but a new beginning in my journey to greater heights.

How do you think the challenges and experiences at The Citadel have shaped the person you are today?

I have faced numerous challenges since first setting foot on this campus. For me, there was no turning back. These trials forged my character and shaped me into the resilient individual I am today. The hardships we endure now are fleeting, destined to be resolved in a matter of months, but the mental fortitude and resilience we develop will last a lifetime. Pushing myself beyond perceived limits, embracing discomfort and persevering through adversity have become second nature. These challenges have toughened my resolve and expanded my capacity for empathy, leadership and adaptability. As I continue on this journey, I carry with me the unwavering conviction that every obstacle overcome is a step towards becoming a better cadet and a more decisive, more capable leader ready to face the complex challenges of the world beyond The Citadel’s gates.

Who has been the most influential person during your time at The Citadel, and how have they impacted your journey?

Throughout my Citadel journey, I’ve been blessed with a constellation of influential mentors, each playing a crucial role in my growth and success. At the heart of this support network is Mr. Tim from the mail office, an unexpected beacon of wisdom and compassion amid the rigorous demands of knob year. His office became a sanctuary where I could share my struggles and triumphs, and his unwavering belief in my potential pushed me to become my best self. Mr. Tim’s example taught me that authentic leadership transcends rank, lying instead in one’s ability to influence others positively. Alongside him, Cadet Pierceson Lee has been a steadfast presence, weathering my ups and downs with unwavering friendship and support. The generosity of spirit extended beyond campus borders, with alumni stepping in during my most challenging times. Both Citadel graduates, Mr. Chuck Lawless and Mr. Ulises Carrillo, have supported me throughout my four years, offering guidance and encouragement that bridges the gap between past and present cadets. Tom Valenti, whose kindness and leadership have eased my journey since 2019, has been a constant source of inspiration and practical help. Each individual has contributed uniquely to my Citadel experience, forming a tapestry of support that has carried me through the most demanding challenges and sweetest triumphs. Their collective influence has profoundly impacted my understanding of leadership, compassion and the enduring bonds of The Citadel family. As I reflect on their impact, I’m filled with deep gratitude, recognizing that my success is a testament to their belief in me and the power of meaningful connections in shaping one’s journey.

Is there a particular tradition or moment at The Citadel that stands out as your favorite?

One particular moment that was my favorite was undoubtedly challenge morning during knob year. Nothing could have fully prepared me for the intensity of seeing all the cadets together, their stern faces and barking orders overwhelming my senses. The chaos and pressure were initially terrifying, unlike anything I had experienced. Yet, pushing through the physical and mental challenges, I discovered an unexpected thrill beneath the fear. There was a strange excitement in facing this rite of passage alongside my classmates, all united in our struggle. As the morning progressed, I uncovered reserves of strength I didn’t know I possessed. This defining experience, as daunting as it was, revealed the depth of my resilience and marked the true beginning of my transformation into a Citadel cadet. The shared ordeal created an instant bond among us knobs, turning fear into a sense of pride and accomplishment.

If you could go back and give advice to your freshman self, what would you say and why?

If I could go back and advise my freshman self, I would say embrace every challenge as an opportunity for growth. The language barriers, cultural adjustments and rigorous demands of The Citadel may seem overwhelming now, but they are forging your character and resilience. Trust in your ability to adapt and overcome. Seek mentors who can guide you, and don’t be afraid to lean on your fellow cadets for support. Remember that your unique background is an asset, not a hindrance. Stay true to your goals, maintain your academic excellence and know that every struggle prepares you for a future of leadership and impact in international affairs.

About The Citadel Class of 2025’s ring stories

Members of The Citadel Class of 2025 receive their rings on Friday, Sept. 27. Before getting their rings, some seniors spoke about the event’s significance with Cadet Zoe Crecos, the Regimental Public Affairs Officer for the South Carolina Corps of Cadets. Crecos, who is from Palm Beach, Florida, is a Marketing and Business Development major with a minor in Data Science. When she graduates, she will be pursuing a career in Supply Chain at Boeing in Charleston, South Carolina.