From Oltiariq to Harvard: 17-year-old wins full scholarship

How many Uzbeks study at the prestigious Harvard University? Two, three, maybe four? The exact number may be unknown, but it is undoubtedly small. Graduating from Harvard opens doors to careers worldwide, as its alumni are recognized as top-tier professionals. On December 13, 2024, a 17-year-old from Fergana, Azizbek Zaylobiddinov, became one of the rare few from Uzbekistan to gain admission to Harvard – with a full scholarship. His achievement has sparked widespread admiration.

QALAMPIR.UZ continues its conversations with young talents excelling in education, and today’s guest is Azizbek Zaylobiddinov – a Harvard student.

Azizbek shared insights into the lengthy and challenging process of applying to Harvard, explaining that academic excellence alone is not sufficient. Involvement in extracurricular activities significantly boosts the chances of admission to prestigious institutions abroad.

“Harvard ensures that all accepted undergraduate students can study, regardless of their financial situation. The university has ample resources. Getting accepted is tough, but receiving a grant is not the issue,” Azizbek remarked.

Why then is the number of Uzbek students at Harvard so low? Azizbek believes it is not due to a lack of talent or potential. Rather, the university, being in the U.S., prioritizes domestic students, with limited quotas allocated for international applicants.

“We admit two to three students from countries like China or India each year – four at most. Harvard focuses on supporting American students first, then offers limited slots to international students,” he explained.

How did Azizbek secure a full scholarship from an ordinary family? Does he plan to return to Uzbekistan after graduating? What advice does he have for young people striving for success in higher education?

Find the answers to these and more in the full interview on QALAMPIR.UZ.