Newsroom

Meet recent Raritan Valley Community College graduate Safa Rizwan—a dual-degree student who studied both Biological and Social Sciences. “From an early age, I’ve been deeply fascinated by the workings of the human body and the mind,” says Safa. “This curiosity, combined with a passion for helping others, led me to pursue both fields,” she says.

Now that she’s earned her Associate Degree of Social Sciences and Associate Degree of Biological Sciences from RVCC, Safa plans to transfer to Rutgers University to pursue a degree in Cell Biology and Neuroscience, as well as a degree in Political Science. “This dual focus reflects my passion for both the sciences and understanding the broader societal structures that influence healthcare,” she says.

From her very first day on campus at RVCC, Safa embraced all that The College had to offer—academically, socially, and beyond. “RVCC offered an exceptional academic environment and countless opportunities for personal and professional growth,” she says. “Its vibrant campus life, dedicated faculty, and commitment to student success made it the perfect place to start my educational journey,” continues Safa, who also cites RVCC’s affordability and community-focused atmosphere as significant factors in her decision to attend the school.

At RVCC, Safa not only excelled in the classroom but also made a powerful impact through leadership as President of the Activities Board and Vice President of Leadership for Phi Theta Kappa. Other roles included student government representative, RVCC orientation leader, and member of the Orgullo Latino club.

Safa’s various contributions did not go unnoticed. She received the New Jersey Stars Scholarship, the Sanofi Corporate Mentorship Program Scholarship, and was also recognized as a Critical Language Scholarship Finalist for Korean. She graduated from the RVCC Honors College cum laude, made the Dean’s List, and earned four Student Leader Celebration Awards for Outstanding Leadership.

Outside of school, Safa found time to volunteer as a medical assistant and EMT at North Brunswick Rescue Squad—which she plans to continue doing during her time at Rutgers. “These hands-on experiences not only deepen my understanding of patient care but also reinforce my commitment to improving lives through medicine,” she says.

Safa’s long-term goal is clear: to become a physician who advocates for compassionate, equitable healthcare. “My dream is to combine my love for science with a strong commitment to helping others,” she says. “I want to provide personalized care that addresses the whole person, not just their illness—and to advocate for fair and accessible healthcare policies that can make a real difference.”

Now, as she moves forward, Safa carries RVCC with her, both in heart and in spirit. “Graduating from RVCC is a bittersweet milestone,” she says. “It’s my greatest triumph and yet my deepest heartbreak. This journey has not just prepared me for the future, but has given me the courage to embrace it with open arms.”

Become the Next RVCC Success Story!

Have you been searching for “schools for two-year degree programs near me?” Rest assured that you’ve come to the right place!

Raritan Valley Community College is ranked #1 among the best community colleges in NJ by WalletHub.com and Intelligent.com. The College offers more than 90 degree and certificate programs, small class sizes, affordable tuition, a vibrant campus life, and more to set students up for success.

RVCC is located at 118 Lamington Road in Branchburg, NJ. Apply today or click here to learn more.