Honoring my grandfather

Documentary filmmaker Amina Chaudary remembers her grandfather's tenacity, on the eve of her graduation, and continues his legacy of perseverance, education, and service.My grandfather immigrated to the U.S. from South Asia in the 1950s to attend college and pursue the American dream. He was motivated by his sense of adventure, his interest in pursuing education, and his desire to make a difference in the world. After more than six months of exchanging letters, he finally was accepted to a university and flew with a few hundred dollars, if that, in his pocket. Twelve years later, he earned his PhD in microbiology and went on to study infectious diseases in notable hospital labs across America. His effort helped uncover medical mysteries.My grandfather passed away a few years ago, at the age of 92, but I know if he were alive today, he would have donned his white lab coat and offered to help the fight against Covid-19.As a young girl born and raised in suburban Chicago, I was always fascinated by his stories of coming to America and his path to graduating with the highest degrees. He attributed his success to the opportunities made available to him in this country. His perseverance and desire to serve left a big impression on me.Today, I come full circle celebrating him with the completion of my own doctorate, after 10 challenging years. I dedicated my dissertation on ethnic and religious minorities in American history to my grandfather; it's his story that inspired my journey.My cap, gown and diploma were mailed to me in January in preparation for my now-canceled-because-of-covid19-graduation, which was to be in a few weeks. My family was planning on attending my hooding ceremony to celebrate the legacy of my grandfather. I know he would have been proud to see me become the first woman in my family to receive a PhD.I honor my grandfather, and I applaud the millions of others like him who immigrate to this country and work to better themselves and their families while making meaningful contributions to this country. So many are the essential healers, carers and workers on the frontline of Covid relief today.

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