colin powell school
From High School Dreams to The New York Times: Fairuz Omar Raya’s Journalism Journey
Meet Fairuz Omar Raya, a sophomore at City College of New York (CCNY), who is turning her passion for storytelling into a promising journalism career. Majoring in Political Science and minoring in Journalism, Fairuz has already secured remarkable accomplishments, including her acceptance into the New York Times Corps program and the NBCU Academy and Inner Circle Journalism Fellowship.
From Early Inspiration to a Journalism Calling
As a Bangladeshi-American immigrant from Queens, Fairuz’s path in journalism began in high school. After initially enrolling in a journalism workshop to explore her love for writing, COVID disrupted her plans, but she reapplied and joined the newspaper staff her junior year. Covering everything from arts to sports, Fairuz realized her calling while reporting on her school’s Indoor Track Team. “I stayed up all night compiling my research into an article,” she recalls. “I realized I was having so much fun that this was what I wanted to do for the rest of my life.”
Her high school journalism experience evolved into a Features Editor and Social Media Manager role, which further solidified her passion. Now, at CCNY, she’s doubling down on her studies, with journalism as her primary focus and an ambition to excel in political reporting.
Finding Her Academic Home at CCNY
For Fairuz, City College was an easy choice, a decision shaped by her sister’s positive experience there, a memorable middle school visit, and the financial freedom it offered. She was drawn to the resources and opportunities provided by the Colin Powell School, where frequent emails about internships and fellowships consistently pave her way forward. “I try to take advantage of them all,” she says. The Colin Powell School and CCNY have created an academic environment where Fairuz feels supported and inspired to achieve her goals.
An Unforgettable Opportunity: The New York Times Corps
This year, Fairuz’s career aspirations took a leap forward when she was accepted into The New York Times Corps program. Recommended by her journalism professor, Barbara Nevins Taylor, she applied at the last minute, securing letters of recommendation and preparing thoroughly for her interview. “When I found out I’d been accepted, I immediately showed Barbara, and she was so excited that she jumped up and hugged me,” Fairuz shares.
The program, which began in mid-September, includes monthly seminars and one-on-one mentorship with a seasoned journalist from The New York Times. Through her mentor’s guidance, Fairuz aims to navigate the journalism landscape, network with industry professionals, and ultimately secure a career as a writer for a major newspaper.
How the Colin Powell School Empowers Her Ambitions
Fairuz credits the Colin Powell School for making her journey smoother and more achievable. With seminars on career building, financial success, and consistent fellowship updates, she finds the school’s support invaluable, especially as a student balancing part-time work. The school’s efforts to cater to its diverse student body make her feel genuinely seen and cared for, which motivates her to take advantage of every opportunity that comes her way.
A Transformative Experience in Community and Faith
Amid the hustle of CCNY life, Fairuz’s most transformative experience has been the simple comfort of the prayer room on campus. “As a Muslim, having this room makes me feel supported,” she says, describing the peaceful community it fosters. For Fairuz, it’s a place of belonging that makes her feel proud to be part of CCNY’s inclusive environment.
Advice for Fellow Students
Fairuz encourages current and future students to immerse themselves in CCNY’s many events and resources. Whether it’s history showcases, financial literacy conferences, or simply building strong connections with professors, she believes engagement enriches the college experience. And a practical tip? “Don’t forget to check your emails! I know everyone is busy, but it shows your school cares about you.”
Three Words to Describe the Colin Powell School Experience
When asked to sum up her experience, Fairuz chooses: “Supportive, Flexible, Understanding.” These qualities have helped her navigate her journey from high school journalist to aspiring professional, making CCNY and the Colin Powell School the perfect foundation for her future in journalism.