Dija Haq '26 broke out of her shell with help from UNH's supportive environment and welcoming community, and is now pursuing her passion for economics.
Northwestern Pakistan
Economics Club, Inclusive Leadership Fellow, Business Ethics Teaching Assistant, Research Assistant
Growing up in Northwestern Pakistan, I was always fascinated by economics. I loved how it explained real-world issues and made sense of the socioeconomic problems around us. I always knew I wanted to go to the US for college – but I never imagined I'd end up studying Analytical Economics at the University of New Hampshire!
I applied to TONS of colleges in the US. And I got into many! But I'm going to be honest, they were really expensive. UNH was my most affordable option.
But coming here wasn't just about cost. I kept on researching and I learned that Paul was ranked very high!
And I knew UNH had a liberal arts program, so if I found a new passion once I got here I wouldn't be stuck. That's something that isn't offered in my country –or other places that I was looking at in the UK.
At UNH, I've had incredible opportunities to grow. I knew I wanted to be involved in research right away, so I just... asked. I emailed Professor Bruce Elmslie. He was open to it, so we met in person and I think we just clicked! Bruce is one of the best people that I've ever met – he's so funny.
I'm also a TA for business ethics and part of the Inclusive Leadership Fellows program. I'm really trying to take every opportunity I can. These experiences have pushed me outside my comfort zone, helping me grow as a person. I barely recognize the person I used to be. UNH really helped me break out of my shell!
My professors have always been incredible at UNH. Specifically, the Paul professors are so helpful, so knowledgeable, and great at discussions. They want you to succeed!
Most of my friends that I've made, I met through my hall. So they're mostly different majors! We have so much fun together. My roommate and I had to get an air mattress because all my friends come over and then they fall asleep!
Other things we like to do include skating at the Whittemore Center, doing escape rooms in Portsmouth, and driving to Newmarket to drink coffee with cats at the Tipsy Tabby!
Take the leap and get out of your comfort zone. UNH provides the perfect environment to grow, learn, and prepare for a successful future.
My time at UNH has solidified my dream of pursuing a Ph.D. in Economics. The research experience, supportive professors, and hands-on learning opportunities have given me the confidence to aim high.
