Judy Marouf is a new NOVA graduate with two degrees: an A.S. in computer science and another in business administration. She plans to continue her academic journey this fall at a four-year university in the DC area.
In addition to being a 2023–24 NOVA SEAL Award winner for excellence in service, engagement, academics and leadership, Judy is a recipient of the 2024 NOVA Loser-Savkar Science PaTHS Scholarship.
Judy is also one of two NOVA students this year awarded the prestigious Jack Kent Cooke (JKC) Foundation’s Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship, which provides winners up to $55,000 for two or three years to complete their bachelor's degree.
As the co-founder and now former president of NOVA's Women in STEM club — which currently boasts more than 200 members — Judy is committed to boosting female representation in STEM fields. Her ultimate career aspiration is to secure a leadership role in the tech industry, where she hopes to improve communication and collaboration among technical teams to advance business goals.
Tell us a little about yourself and your background.
I am a Syrian American born and raised in Northern Virginia. I’m also a second-generation Nighthawk — my father studied here in the ‘90s!
I’ve loved STEM since I was a little girl, particularly math and lab sciences. I knew I’d eventually pursue a STEM career, but it took a lot of exploring to figure out what I enjoyed the most. I decided on computer science because it seemed the most intriguing. I also appreciate how versatile a computer science degree can be, coupled with the right experience.
How do you feel about being a Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Scholarship finalist?
I'm incredibly honored and excited. With the opportunity to further my education without the heavy financial burden, I can now more realistically expand my transfer options. And being part of a prestigious group of scholars inspires me; I want to continue to strive for academic excellence and make a positive impact in my community.
While this recognition validates my hard work and dedication through the years, it’s also a testament to the support I've received from my professors, family and peers. I'm deeply grateful for the chance to pursue my goals with the generous support of the Cooke Foundation. And I’m committed to making the most of it!
Tell us about your experience at NOVA (i.e., professors you liked and friends you met).
I’ve taken courses from wonderful instructors who made learning memorable and fun. One of those was business and marketing professor Judith McNamee. She’s passionate and organized, and I absolutely adore her! Another was biology professor James Estep, whose enthusiasm and wit made his lectures quite lively!
Through founding and leading the Women in STEM club, I met Dr. Manori Nadesalingam, who serves as the club’s advisor. She’s been a huge help to us, and I’m happy to be in close communication with her.
What would you tell a student coming to NOVA?
Our time at NOVA is short, and it’ll fly by if you don’t take advantage of it. By the time we start at NOVA, we already have one foot out the door, ready to transition to the next stage of our lives. But this brief, transient phase is also one of the most important in determining our future.
The possibilities of what you can achieve at NOVA are endless. I’ve met some of the most well-accomplished, inspiring people here! Want to transfer to an Ivy League school? With the right level of effort, you can do it. Want to intern at the White House or NASA? Plenty of Nighthawks have done it before; you can, too.
At NOVA, you’ll interact with individuals from all walks of life. I’d encourage students to talk to as many people as possible; learn from their stories and witness the beautiful diversity of our student body. A great way to do this is by joining (or creating!) clubs. Being involved in a student organization will improve your sense of belonging at NOVA and equip you with many skills — especially if you take on a leadership role.
Also, talk to your professors! The small class size here is a blessing. If you plan on transferring, chances are that it’ll be harder to get one-on-one time with faculty at your next school.
Where do you see yourself after NOVA, or what career pursuits are you exploring?
I aim to pursue a Bachelor of Science in computer science with a minor in business studies. In the long term, I’d like to get a master’s in project management or related technical field.
I’m very family-oriented, so distance from home was a major factor when deciding which schools to apply to. I’m hoping to continue my education at an institution in the DC area.