“Mount Mary was my destiny,” said Mahdia Bita, reflecting on the unexpected path that led her to Mount Mary University. What began as a simple suggestion from a high school advisor with ties to Milwaukee soon became a defining chapter in her life. She applied, was accepted, and quickly found herself part of a close-knit campus community that would shape her future.
Mahdia was selected as the student commencement speaker for the university’s May 2026 ceremony on Saturday, May 16. During the ceremony, she will share her story of resilience, transformation and hope.
Mahdia's journey to Mount Mary began long before she arrived on campus. Born in Iran and raised in Afghanistan, Mahdia relocated to Vancouver, British Columbia with her family. These experiences gave her a powerful perspective—one that continues to shape her outlook on education and opportunity.
“I think about the fact that so many girls back home are not able to access education,” she said. “When I feel overwhelmed by challenges, I remember that and keep going.”
Her time at Mount Mary, she says, has not only been an academic journey but a deeply personal one. Mahdia credits the faculty and staff for creating an environment where she could thrive. Their kindness, patience and encouragement helped her navigate challenges and discover her strengths.
Just as meaningful were the friendships she built along the way. Mahdia shared that these relationships offered support and belonging, reinforcing her sense that she was exactly where she needed to be.
Through both her life experiences and her time at Mount Mary, Mahdia says she has discovered who she is and who she hopes to become. The Biology major plans to pursue a career in medicine, driven by a desire to make a meaningful impact. While she looks forward to what lies ahead, she knows she will also miss the community she has come to cherish.
As she prepares to step onto the commencement stage, Mahdia carries a message for her fellow graduates: growth is not always easy, but it is essential. She encourages others to embrace a mindset of continuous learning, to trust themselves, and to have confidence in their abilities. Her story is a testament to perseverance and possibility—a reminder that even the most uncertain journeys can lead to extraordinary destinations.