When Washington State University Pullman senior Maryum Ajaz graduated from high school, she struggled with self-doubt and lacked direction. It was her uncle, Muhammad Tariq, that reminded her about the power of education, and the doors it could unlock for her future. His words opened her eyes to the possibilities that laid ahead, and the role WSU could play in helping her realize her dreams.
“His certainty about my potential, and his insistence that Pullman could be the place where I discover my future, inspired me to take a leap of faith,” Ajaz said. “I can confidently say that his faith in me was a turning point, and I am thankful to have found my new family at WSU.”
In recognition of Tariq’s influence on Ajaz’s educational journey, he was honored as the Fall 2024 Chosen Coug during a celebratory lunch on Saturday, Sept. 21, at the Elson S. Floyd Cultural Center.
Ajaz said her uncle has always been there for her. In her native language, Urdu, she refers to him as “Tariq Chachoo,” which means uncle. It embodies the close bond they share and the respect she has for him. After high school, Ajaz was reluctant to go to college and her uncle was one of the few people that encouraged her to leave her comfort zone and give WSU a try. His nickname for her is “champion of everything,” and while Ajaz did not take it seriously at first, she eventually started to believe in it.
“Despite our family living close to the University of Washington, he has fully embraced the Cougar spirit,” Ajaz said. “He swapped his purple jerseys for crimson and gray, which is a gesture that symbolizes his commitment not just to me, but to the entire WSU community. He is a true Coug!”
‘A story of selfless commitment’
Jeanne Weiler, coordinator of Presidential Initiatives in the Office of the President, has served on the Chosen Coug selection committee for several years and said it is always a highlight of her year. She described Tariq’s nomination as a descriptive story of selfless commitment.
“He is a special, selfless person who is satisfied when others succeed,” Weiler said. “The entire selection committee agreed that truly is a rare trait.”
Lauren Graziano, WSU corporate engagement coordinator, said there were 50 impactful nominations for the award, and as soon as she began reading about Tariq, she knew he should be this fall’s Chosen Coug.
“The story Maryum shared about her uncle illustrated the profound impact of commitment, mentorship, and the power of believing in someone who hasn’t yet found that belief in themselves,” said Graziano. “He not only embodies what it means to be a Coug, he played a pivotal role in Maryum’s journey to becoming a Coug and she embodies those same qualities herself.”
The Chosen Coug Award, managed by Student Affairs, recognizes individuals from across the university system who have made a substantial impact on a student’s experience at WSU.
