Sabah Haji’s story reflects the impact of SUNY Poly’s commitment to first-generation achievement

UTICA, NY – The Center for First-generation Student Success, now known as FirstGen Forward, has named SUNY Polytechnic Institute (SUNY Poly) one of sixty new FirstGen Forward Network Members for 2025–26. This national recognition honors SUNY Poly’s strong commitment to supporting and empowering first-generation college students — those who are the first in their families to pursue a college degree. This commitment is reflected in the journey of SUNY Poly senior Sabah Haji, a Mechanical Engineering major from Utica.

Born in the Doctors Without Borders Hospital in Dagahaley, part of Kenya’s Dadaab Refugee Camp, Haji (pictured above center) came to the United States with her family at age four through the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees.

“Sometimes, being a first-generation college student can be overwhelming because there is no one to guide you, and your family is looking at you for success,” she said. “It can be a lonely and daunting process because if you don’t succeed, your family stays in the same place. I look at it as my responsibility to get my family ahead.”

Despite the challenges, Haji has thrived at SUNY Poly. She credits her professors and support programs such as the Collegiate Science and Technology Entry Program (CSTEP), Educational Opportunity Program (EOP), and the Women in Engineering Club for helping her balance academics, full-time work, and professional development.

“When I was working 12-hour shifts at Wolfspeed and taking on too much, my professors worked with me, offered extensions, and helped me find tutoring,” she said. “Their support and belief in me have been monumental.”

At SUNY Poly, Haji serves as president of the Women in Engineering Club, a resident assistant, and the student representative on the College Council. Beyond campus, she is currently an intern in the National Science Foundation Upstate NY Energy Engine program. She’s also received the Women in STEM Scholarship from Zonta International, and earned the Healing Forward Scholarship from the Midtown Utica Community Center, founded by SUNY Poly alum Nan Han. She recently spoke as a panelist at the Experience LeadHERship Summit and serves on the Utica City School District Advanced Manufacturing CTE Pathway Advisory Council.  

“We are extremely honored to be selected as a member of the FirstGen Forward Network,” said SUNY Poly President Dr. Winston Soboyejo. “At SUNY Poly, we believe every student’s journey matters. For our first-generation students, this recognition affirms our commitment to walking with them every step of the way—providing the mentorship and community that help them achieve their goals and shape meaningful futures.” 

The FirstGen Forward Network provides a national framework designed to help colleges and universities strengthen support for first-generation students through academic, social, and institutional initiatives. Since its launch, 489 institutions across 49 states and the District of Columbia have joined the Network.

“We are pleased to welcome SUNY Poly into the FirstGen Forward Network,” said Dr. Stephanie J. Bannister, vice president with FirstGen Forward. “Through the application process, it was clear that SUNY Poly is not only committed to supporting first-generation students, but also prepared to invest in long-term, strategic efforts that create environments where these students can truly thrive.”

Haji’s story exemplifies that commitment. As she prepares to graduate in May 2026, she stands as a powerful example of the resilience, determination, and community that define first-generation students at SUNY Poly.

SUNY Poly is proud to champion first-generation success, empowering students like Sabah Haji to lead, innovate, and build brighter futures for their families and communities.