Faces of CPS: Ali Sharifi Tarokh

Three Words to Describe Northeastern:

Transformative | Empowering | Impactful

Getting a degree while life is happening isn’t always easy. How have you faced and overcome some of these challenges?

One of the most significant challenges I faced was arriving in Chicago as a refugee and navigating the complexities of rebuilding my life in a new country. The cultural, professional, and systemic barriers were daunting, especially as I worked to establish stability for myself and my family.

I overcame these challenges by leveraging resilience, education, and a strong sense of purpose. I immersed myself in learning, ultimately earning a doctorate in Law and Policy, which allowed me to deeply understand and address systemic inequities. My dissertation on refugee employment barriers in Illinois reflects both my personal journey and my commitment to improving the lives of others facing similar challenges.

Additionally, I built a career dedicated to refugee advocacy, using storytelling, policy reform, and interfaith engagement to amplify marginalized voices and create tangible change. These experiences have taught me the power of perseverance and community in overcoming adversity.

“Northeastern gave me the platform to grow as both an academic and a practitioner, enabling me to publish my work, engage in meaningful advocacy, and inspire others in the refugee and immigrant community.”

What inspired you to join the Northeastern community?

I chose to join the Northeastern community because of its emphasis on experiential learning, global perspectives, and the opportunity to merge academic rigor with real-world impact. As a political and human rights activist from Iran who was banned from studying in universities for life, continuing my education was a deeply personal promise I made to myself when I was forced to leave my country and become a refugee. Northeastern stood out as a place where I could fulfill that promise while contributing to a mission aligned with my values.

Since joining, one of the most transformative opportunities has been pursuing my doctoral degree, which allowed me to amplify my voice and address issues that deeply matter to me, such as refugee employment barriers. Northeastern gave me the platform to grow as both an academic and a practitioner, enabling me to publish my work, engage in meaningful advocacy, and inspire others in the refugee and immigrant community.

However, I also encountered challenges, such as the absence of scholarships specifically for refugees. This was a stark reality that I sought to shed light on by writing an op-ed for Huntington News, highlighting how Northeastern can play a critical role in empowering refugees through education. Many refugees, like myself, dream of continuing their education upon arrival, and institutions like Northeastern have the potential to be life-changing for them.

Despite these challenges, Northeastern provided me with the chance to achieve a goal I once thought was impossible and to use my education as a tool for creating broader change. For that, I am deeply grateful.

What has your journey at Northeastern revealed to you about yourself?

My journey at Northeastern University has revealed to me the depth of my resilience, adaptability, and commitment to creating meaningful change. Coming to Northeastern as a refugee and pursuing a doctoral degree while navigating the challenges of rebuilding my life showed me that perseverance, even in the face of overwhelming obstacles, can lead to transformative growth.

It also taught me the power of my voice and experiences. I realized that m story is rooted in activism, displacement, and that my advocacy could inspire change, whether through academic work like my dissertation on refugee employment barriers, public speaking, or writing op-eds to highlight systemic inequities.

Most importantly, my time at Northeastern has reaffirmed my belief that education is not just a personal achievement but a responsibility to uplift others. It has solidified my purpose as an advocate for marginalized communities and strengthened my resolve to use every opportunity to amplify voices that are often unheard. This journey has shown me that even when the odds are against you, determination and a supportive community can help you achieve your dreams.”

What advice would you give to others considering higher education?

My advice for others considering higher education is to approach it as both an investment in yourself and an opportunity to create a greater impact on the world around you. Education is more than just a degree – it’s a journey of self-discovery, growth, and empowerment.

First, stay resilient in the face of challenges. The path to higher education, especially for those overcoming personal or systemic barriers, can be daunting, but perseverance and a clear sense of purpose will carry you forward. Trust that every obstacle is a chance to grow stronger and more resourceful.

Second, seek out communities that align with your values and can support your journey. Surrounding yourself with peers, mentors, and institutions that believe in your potential will make a world of difference. Don’t hesitate to share your story, advocate for your needs, and lean on others when necessary.

Lastly, remember that education is a powerful tool for change not just for yourself but for others. Whether it’s through your research, professional contributions, or personal example, your education can inspire and uplift those around you. Stay true to your passion, and let your goals guide you through the challenges. If you believe in the transformative power of education, as I do, it can truly change your life and the lives of others.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

I see myself as a leading advocate and community leader for refugee and immigrant populations in Chicago. My goal is to amplify their voices, raise awareness about the challenges they face, and create systemic changes that empower these communities to thrive.

I imagine heading impactful initiative’s whether through policy reform, organizational leadership, or public advocacy that address barriers like employment, education, and social integration. By building bridges between these communities and broader society, I aim to foster understanding and create opportunities for refugees and immigrants to realize their full potential.

I also hope to continue teaching and mentoring, inspiring the next generation of advocates and leaders to carry this mission forward. My vision is to be a trusted voice and resource, ensuring that refugees and immigrants are not only seen and heard but celebrated as integral contributors to our shared community.

What are some of your hobbies and passions?

I find joy in spending quality time with my family. I love watching movies and shows with my wife; our way of unwinding and sparking fun conversations. Another favorite activity is taking my two-year-old daughter to college basketball games. We went to the Northwestern vs. Northeastern game in Chicago, and seeing her excitement and curiosity made it such a memorable experience.

Outside of that, I’m passionate about storytelling and advocacy. Whether it’s through writing, teaching, or connecting with others, I find purpose in sharing meaningful stories that can inspire change. But at the heart of it all, my biggest joy comes from creating special moments with my family and being present for them.

Connect with Ali: LinkedIn, Instagram