Husna completed high school ahead of schedule, volunteered over 1,000 hours, and became a licensed nurse aide—all while rediscovering her love for learning at OFY.

Husna Sabeer’s journey through high school is a testament to how Options For Youth’s flexible, independent study program empowers students to thrive on their own terms.

Raised with the values of “hard work and determination,” Husna understood early on that success depends on the effort and dedication one puts in. Having been homeschooled through elementary and middle school, she discovered that independent study best suited her learning style.

Husna making an impactful speech and addressing her graduating class of 2024 at OFY San Juan.

At the start of high school, Husna enrolled in a traditional public school but soon realized it didn’t provide the enrichment she needed. After transitioning to Options For Youth, she “rediscovered my love for learning” through the freedom to work at her own pace. 

"As a student at Options for Youth, I was able to work at my own pace, which allowed me to work ahead and complete my classes and finish high school at a faster pace than I would have at traditional public school," she adds.

Husna credits OFY’s staff, faculty, and teachers with creating a “comforting and fun learning environment,” providing the guidance and resources she needed to succeed. The flexibility of independent study allowed her to explore opportunities beyond academics, including internships, volunteering, and hobbies.

During her time at OFY, Husna dedicated over 1,000 hours to community service at local mosques, soup kitchens, and community centers. She pursued her passion for teaching by instructing religious studies at her mosque and gained practical experience in healthcare by becoming a licensed nurse aide—steps toward her goal of a nursing career.

Like many students, Husna faced challenges balancing education, work, and social life. She learned to “live in the now and focus on what you can control,” a lesson she shares with fellow graduates: “There will be times of hardship, but with it, will come ease.”

Husna offers special thanks to the “amazing staff at Options For Youth” for their kindness and support throughout her journey. She also expresses gratitude to her family, especially her mother, whose resilience continues to inspire her.

Husna’s experience highlights the strength of OFY’s independent study model: providing personalized support, fostering self-motivation, and creating space for students to pursue their passions—proving that with the right environment, every student can succeed.

Husna is now the Vice President for the Muslim Student Association Club at Sacramento City College and is a Certified Nursing Assistant in her community.