Articles
From HCC to Stanford: Avey Etaghene’s journey to impact the world with AI
By Dwight Daniels, Senior Writer
Dec 5, 2024
For Avey Etaghene, the journey from Nigeria to the prestigious halls of Stanford University was neither simple nor straightforward—it was shaped by persistence, great faculty mentorship and a relentless drive to dream big.
Born and raised in Nigeria, Avey’s early life was defined by a family culture that deeply valued education. Her parents—eager to offer their four children greater opportunities—made a courageous decision to relocate to the U.S. The decision would lay the foundation for their daughter’s remarkable academic journey and her decision to attend Houston Community College (HCC).
Upon moving to the U.S., Avey, 19, faced the challenge of adjusting to a new educational system, a transition that could have easily discouraged her, she said.
But an encouraging advisor suggested she enroll in HCC dual-credit courses as a student at William B. Travis High School in Richmond. And it was there that Avey met Dr. Christine Bernard, an algebra teacher, who would play a pivotal role in shaping her future.
"Dr. Bernard believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself," Avey recalled. "Her encouragement made me realize that I had the potential to achieve more than I initially thought possible."
She chose to attend HCC, deciding to study in the Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Robotics curriculum.
"HCC became a place where I was surrounded by incredible, caring professors who truly wanted to see me succeed," she reflected.
Faculty member Dr. Nausheen Pasha-Zaidi, psychology professor and former Southwest Honors College director, became her mentor.
“Avey is a beautiful human being—bright, vivacious, genuine and caring,” Dr. Pasha-Zaidi said. “I don't think she realizes the positive impact she has on everyone around her. She will make a huge difference in the world.”
For Avey, taking part in Honors College enriched her academic experience. “It pushed me to think bigger and challenge myself," she said.
Outside academics at HCC, Avey served as student government president and as a student ambassador. She also earned national recognition in a NASA tech-transfer competition as a finalist and did AI research internships at the University of Texas at Austin.
Initially, Avey had set her sights on several area colleges after HCC. Her advisor, David Frels, planted the idea of applying to Stanford and other top universities.
"For me, it was clear she had the talent and abilities that top universities are looking for, so I encouraged her to shoot for the moon,” Frels said.
Avey was skeptical at first. “After considering the confidence he and Dr. Pasha-Zaidi had in me, I decided to go for it,” Avey said.
That leap paid off: Avey was accepted to Stanford and started in fall 2024. She is pursuing a degree in computer science on a Jack Kent Cook Foundation scholarship for three years at $55,000 annually.
“Stanford is incredible, and the opportunities to engage in research and collaborate with experts in the field are beyond what I ever imagined," Avey said.
Her long-term goals include pursuing a master’s degree or Ph.D. to deepen her expertise in AI and machine learning and to work with organizations at the forefront of technology. She is also participating in other activities, including taking part in The Stanford Shakespeare Company's dramatic programs.
“I think my story is just beginning,” Avey said. “I want to show how girls from disadvantaged backgrounds can defy expectations. By applying my skills, I hope to empower others facing the barriers I once confronted.”