The Pehli Peedi Fellowship presents the first in a series of stories highlighting the experiences of first-generation students across India.
Nagma Begum is a PhD scholar at Calcutta University and an Assistant Professor at Vedanta College. A first-generation student from Kolkata, her educational journey has unfolded against the backdrop of patriarchal norms, religious prejudice, and a lack of familial support. Her story is one of quiet defiance, achievement, and a deep commitment to transforming how first-generation students like her are educated and perceived in higher education.
“I never wanted to fight the world—only to study. But somewhere along the way, studying became my way of fighting.”
Read his full story below. Profile by Sumaiya Shahid.
Sumaiya: What was it like growing up with your family in Kolkata?
Nagma: I grew up in a patriarchal society. Both my parents, who have since passed away, had limited education—my father studied till the 10th standard, while my mother never attended school. Education was not something that was discussed at home. Despite that, I was always keen on studying.
Sumaiya: Could you tell us about your education and your family’s or community’s views on education?
Nagma: I completed my schooling from Anglo Arabic Secondary School. In my community, education—especially for women—is not valued. Many girls are married off right after completing school, sometimes even before adulthood. Several of my schoolmates faced this. For me, pursuing education felt like something I had to constantly fight for.
Sumaiya: Are you comfortable sharing your caste? What role has it played in your life?
Nagma: My paternal caste is Shaikh and my maternal caste is Qureshi. Both castes follow strict and orthodox rules, which have affected me throughout my life and shaped how I view the world.
Sumaiya: Looking back, what obstacles did you have to overcome personally, academically, and socially when you entered university?
Nagma: My biggest obstacle was convincing my parents to let me go to college. I received neither emotional nor financial support. The constant refrain was, “You should be getting married.” Schooling was difficult, but I persisted. Socially, I felt quite alone and faced discrimination for being a Muslim woman. People had assumptions about what an “intellectual” should look or sound like, and I was often judged for my clothing or my English. I made sure my self-esteem wasn’t shaken by this.
Sumaiya: Describe your university experience. What was most surprising or challenging? What concerns do students from your background commonly face?
Nagma: University brought both highs and lows. I faced discrimination, but I also met professors who encouraged me deeply. My Head of Department suggested I pursue a PhD, and that changed my life. I hadn’t expected university to be such a demanding and transformative space. It challenged me, but it also shaped me. Students from my background often face discrimination because of their religious identities and the prejudices attached to them.
Sumaiya: Have your goals changed since you started university? What do you aim for now, and what challenges remain?
Nagma: Initially, I only wanted to continue my studies to avoid getting married. Later, my aspirations shifted toward financial independence and academic success. Today, I’m proud to be both a PhD scholar and an Assistant Professor. But societal pressure remains my biggest challenge.
Sumaiya: Have you ever felt like leaving or questioned your place at university?
Nagma: Yes. I have faced discrimination due to my religious background, and at times it made me feel like I didn’t belong. But it also made me more determined—even a little rebellious. I see pressure as a challenge, and that keeps me going.
Sumaiya: Do you feel that being first-gen impacts how others see you?
Nagma: Yes. People carry biases based on family background. Many assume first-generation students are less capable or less exposed.
Sumaiya: What do you wish professors, peers, or university leaders better understood about students like you?
Nagma: I want them to understand first-generation students better. They shouldn’t make assumptions about us without knowing our capabilities. Their approach should be neutral—without bias, judgment, or favouritism.
Sumaiya: If you could change one thing about higher education today, what would it be? What do first-gen students need most to succeed?
Nagma: Higher education shouldn’t focus only on exams; it should prioritise overall development. Teachers should take responsibility for that. For first-generation students, determination, perseverance, and hard work are crucial.
Sumaiya: Has your image changed among your family, friends, or community since joining university?
Nagma: Yes, significantly—especially within my community. Many girls look up to me as proof that education and financial independence are possible. Others view me negatively, seeing me as a threat to the strict norms they uphold.
Sumaiya: What advice would you give to a first-gen student just starting college?
Nagma: Work hard. Stay willing and self-aware. And never stop aiming for your dreams.
This is an ongoing series of profiles documenting the experiences of young people across India. Stay tuned for more stories from first-generation students across India. Follow us on social media for more updates.