May 15, 2023
College of Education doctoral candidate wins literary competition
A Kansas State University College of Education graduate student from Iran has won an international literary and artistic competition and earned a $3,000 scholarship.
Nooshin Darvishinia, a doctoral candidate in curriculum and instruction, took first place in the spring 2023 Make Your Mark International Scholarship Contest for her fictional story, “The Voice of a Persian Heroine.”
"Receiving this scholarship from LewerMark is an immense honor,” Darvishinia said. “It recognizes not only my writing but also the stories that I am dedicated to sharing. Nooshin, in my award-winning story, represents the countless silenced and overlooked women, not only in Iran but all around the world. This scholarship has strengthened my resolve to amplify their voices and bring them to the forefront. I am grateful to LewerMark for this opportunity to shed light on the resilience and courage of women everywhere. This award reminds us that with determination, hard work and support, we can overcome any obstacle and achieve our dreams."
Darvishinia’s story was written as a movie plot. It is an inspiring fictional drama that follows the story of Nooshin, a driven international student living in the U.S., who aims to make a positive impact on the world. Despite facing numerous obstacles, Nooshin remains committed to her goals while navigating the challenges of adapting to a new culture and balancing her new life with her longing for her home country, Iran.
While the plot and characters are fictional, the storyline incorporates elements of truth, providing a window into the struggles and triumphs of real people who have gone through similar experiences. Through Nooshin's journey, viewers are reminded of the resilience and strength of the human spirit and the power of determination in overcoming adversity.
Darvishinia is a graduate assistant for K-State’s Rural Education Center. She began her studies at K-State in 2022, moving from Esfahan, Iran. Her research is focused on using technology to enhance teaching and learning in diverse educational contexts. Nooshin holds a master’s degree in teaching English as a foreign language and a bachelor's degree in English literature.
The Make Your Mark International Scholarship Contest was sponsored by LewerMark Student Insurance, based in Overland Park.