Women in remote areas often face limited educational opportunities compared to women in the United States. But Shiza Shahid, a Ph.D. student at The University of Southern Mississippi, has defied these odds to pursue her doctorate in experimental psychology.
Shahid, the first in her family to pursue a doctorate, is originally from Pakistan. She has earned about $60,000 in funding towards her research, which focuses on gender and social class stereotypes, particularly gender equity. The research is mainly about gender equity. Shahid mentions how she studies the gender pay gap and how she believes it should be equal between men and women. She explains that Hispanic women are paid the least pay in the United States. According to the US Census Bureau, women earn 82 cents for every dollar a man makes.
“We need to make this equal for both genders,” said Shahid. “Even though there are laws that state that we should not do this with women, they should have equal pay as compared to men for the same work they do.”
Shahid explained that she chose not to pursue her doctorate in Pakistan due to the limitations on research topics. According to her, the educational system in Pakistan often discourages students from conducting research on contemporary issues, instead encouraging them to follow established patterns. Shahid was inspired to study in the U.S. after listening to guest lecturers from the country.
“The basic purpose of doing my Ph.D. in the states was that I don’t want to become part of the system in Pakistan where you cannot do the research you want to do,” said Shahid. “But you have to follow the paths of your supervisors, and you don’t get a lot of opportunities.”
Shahid’s decision to leave her home and family behind was met with mixed reactions. She explained that her family, living in a remote area with limited access to information, struggled to understand the significance of a Ph.D.
“There were emotional responses, obviously but I will say, they might be proud of me,” said Shahid. “The point is that I am the first-generation student, and it is really hard to tell my parents or siblings about what I am doing and what my research is.”
Shahid hopes to make an impact with her research and inspire other women to pursue independence and education. She believes that change starts from within and aims to empower women to become self-reliant.
“I really want that women should be independent of men because in Pakistan, it is really a culture that we cannot even go somewhere without the permission of our father, brother, or husband,” said Shahid. “So, I really want to see women being independent.”
Leah McSorley, Director of International Student and Scholar Services at Southern Miss, expressed pride in the university’s ability to offer quality, affordable degrees to students from around the globe, particularly from remote areas. She also emphasized the support available for women pursuing their studies in the U.S.
“In my experience, the USA is very welcoming and supportive of women pursuing study and research in a variety of fields,” McSorley said. “Though cultural differences might cause some culture shock, our university resources can support you throughout your academic journey to help achieve your professional goals.”
Shahid hopes to change the mindset surrounding education for women in her home country. She encourages women to prioritize their education and take advantage of opportunities, even if it means going against cultural expectations.
“I really want other women to take that opportunity,” Shahid said. “Instead of thinking about what everyone else will think about me, think about what is best for you.”
