Student Spotlight: How Aadam Saidybah, ’27, is Finding Purpose and Community at UNH Manchester

Aadam Saidybah, a 2023 graduate of Manchester Central High School, began her college journey with big dreams and a deep interest in psychology, and a desire to work closely with people in a way that makes a difference. 

“When I explored UNH Manchester, I saw a program that not only offered a solid foundation in psychology but also emphasized hands-on experiences, internships, and community engagement,” Aadam says. “These opportunities aligned perfectly with my goals of gaining real-world knowledge while continuing my education.”

A Campus that Feels Like Home

When choosing where to study, Aadam knew she wanted to find a place where she could grow, connect, and thrive. She remembers a piece of advice from her high school biology teacher that influenced her perspective: “It’s not the place that makes the person, but the person that makes the place.” 

That message resonated deeply. 

“I chose UNH Manchester because of its strong academic programs, supportive faculty, and close-knit community,” Aadam says. “I wanted a place where I could grow academically while still feeling connected to my professors and peers. The smaller campus environment appealed to me because it allows for more meaningful interactions and opportunities for mentorship.”

A Passion for People

Aadam’s interest in psychology began with a desire to understand how people think, feel, and behave. “What first sparked my interest was noticing how mental health can shape someone’s daily life, relationships, and goals,” she says. “I wanted a degree program that would not only teach me theories but also give me the tools to support others, especially children and adolescents,” she says. 

At UNH Manchester, Aadam is gaining that foundation through coursework, research-focused classes, and preparation for an internship in psychotherapy. “These opportunities helped me see the practical side of psychology and build the confidence to work with others in a professional setting.”

Support that Makes a Difference

Financial support has played a key role in Aadam Saidybah’s journey at UNH Manchester. With the help of the Chancellor’s Scholarship, a Pell Grant, and an outside scholarship from her high school, she’s been able to focus entirely on her education and campus involvement without the added stress of financial barriers.

But for Aadam, support at UNH Manchester goes far beyond scholarships. When asked about the most rewarding part of her experience so far, she highlights the welcoming and connected campus environment.

“The smaller campus community made it easy to connect with professors, peers, and student organizations,” she says. “I also enjoyed contributing to student life as co-founder of a campus art club, where I saw how creativity and comfort can positively impact student well-being. These experiences have shaped both my academic and personal growth, making UNH a meaningful part of my journey.”

From academic mentorship to creative outlets, UNH Manchester offers students like Aadam a place to thrive both in and out of the classroom.

Explore Psychology at UNH Manchester

Learn more about the psychology program at UNH Manchester and discover opportunities for research, internships, and student experiences that help you grow both academically and personally.