From Refugee to Future Doctor: The Inspiring Journey of Iraqi Student Karrar Abed in the U.S.
At just 19, Karrar Abed overcame language barriers and academic challenges to become an award-winning biochemistry student in New York, with dreams of becoming a physician.
In a powerful story of determination and academic ambition, 19-year-old Karrar Abed, an Iraqi immigrant, has become a symbol of perseverance and hope in the United States. After arriving in New York at the age of 10 with no English skills, he now studies biochemistry and is on a steadfast path to becoming a physician.
Karrar arrived in the U.S. around nine years ago, leaving behind the uncertainty of Iraq for a future full of unknowns. He struggled with the language at first, only beginning to master English by the 11th grade. Despite this challenge, he graduated with top honors from East Syracuse Minoa High School in 2023.
That same year, he also earned an associate degree in math and science from Onondaga Community College, a rare feat for someone still in high school. This achievement was made possible by his participation in the OCC Honors Program, which allowed him to take college-level courses alongside his regular classes.
From Iraq to New York: Karrar’s Journey to Academic Excellence in Biochemistry
Now a third-year student at SUNY (State University of New York), Karrar is majoring in environmental science with a focus on biochemistry. He is preparing to earn his bachelor’s degree and pursue his lifelong goal of attending medical school.
His academic efforts have not gone unnoticed. In April, he received the Student Excellence Award from the University at Albany—the highest academic honor awarded by the New York State public university system.
Speaking about his journey, Karrar reflected:“In 9th and 10th grade, I couldn’t speak English fluently. It was incredibly hard, but by 11th grade I had mastered the language and began college coursework. That’s what helped me graduate early from community college.”
At first, Karrar hesitated to pursue medicine. He feared his limited language skills and potential student debt. But through the honors program, he discovered a strong aptitude for science and realized he was capable of succeeding in challenging academic subjects.
From Cancer Research to Fencing: Karrar’s Ongoing Journey of Discovery
Now, his research at SUNY focuses on malfunctioning proteins and their connection to cancer.“We track the proteins to see if there’s a way to restore them,” he explains. “We use gene editing technologies and grow these genes in bacteria. We’re trying to create two genes that can bind a compound between them.”
When asked what advice he’d give to his younger self back in Iraq, he answered:“Don’t worry. Enjoy the journey. I spent sleepless nights fearing I wouldn’t even graduate high school. But I worked hard and studied endlessly. If I could say one thing to myself, it would be: Keep going.”
He added:“Five years ago, I never imagined I’d be standing on a stage receiving such an award. I’ve always loved this quote: Don’t climb mountains so the world can see you—climb them so you can see the world. I live by that.”
Outside of academics, Karrar continues to challenge himself. He is currently learning the art of fencing, with hopes of competing in the future—proving once again that his journey of growth and discovery is far from over.
