From her first days at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, Marzia Azimi approached college as a space for growth, learning and connection. Like many students navigating a new campus, she encountered unfamiliar environments, expectations and experiences that prompted her to become more intentional about how she showed up, communicated and built relationships.
Azimi, a finance and business administration double major in the Sentry School of Business and Economics, found that her early challenges became the starting point for her growth.
“I used to overthink starting conversations at networking events,” said Azimi. “But over time, I learned to trust myself and focus on being genuine, that’s what creates real connections.”
This shift allowed her to build more meaningful and authentic relationships. Rather than focusing on how she was perceived, she became more intentional about listening and learning from others.
For Azimi, networking is not about immediate results but rather about building connections over time. She emphasized that relationships should not be approached with the expectation of instant return.
“I believe in building authentic relationships,” said Azimi. “Someone may not be able to help me right now, but they could connect me to someone who can in the future. That’s why I focus more on the quality of the connection than the immediate outcome.”
With that realization, she became more willing to step into opportunities across campus. Since arriving at UW-Stevens Point, Azimi has taken on multiple roles, including working as a Smiley Professional Events intern, UWSP brand ambassador and financial literacy peer advisor. Through these experiences, she has built connections with students and professionals while developing her leadership skills.
Her work as a financial literacy peer advisor reflects both her involvement and commitment to helping others. In that role, she meets with students weekly to discuss budgeting, credit and financial decision-making.
“I learned so much about investments, budgeting, credit cards and how to access some emergency resources on campus,” said Azimi. “I also learned how to help my fellow Pointers.”
Through those conversations, she identified common challenges students face when managing their finances. She found many struggle not because of large expenses but because of smaller, everyday habits. By helping students recognize those patterns, she aims to give them a clearer understanding of their financial decisions.
Beyond her work in financial literacy, Azimi’s involvement on campus has played a key role in shaping her confidence and approach to leadership. She defines leadership not through a person’s position, but through responsibility and showing up for others.
“Leadership is about influencing people,” said Azimi, adding, “I’ve realized that leadership is also about taking responsibility when you don’t have to and showing that you care enough to step up.”
Her experiences led her to being named one of 13 recipients of the $3,000 Tommy G. Thompson Leadership Scholarship, an annual award from the Tommy G. Thompson Center on Public Leadership presented to one student at each of the Universities of Wisconsin who demonstrates leadership, determination and a commitment to bettering Wisconsin.
As a first-generation college student, Azimi said education has always carried a deep sense of privilege and responsibility. That perspective motivates her to fully engage with the opportunities available during her time at UW-Stevens Point.
She also emphasized the importance of communication skills, encouraging students to develop both public speaking and writing as tools for success. She said these abilities can open doors to scholarships, interviews and professional connections throughout a student’s college experience and beyond.
“Not only was she an exceptionally dedicated and hardworking team member,” said Sentry School Outreach Specialist and Major Gifts Officer Carie Winn, “but she also motivated both students and professional staff through her remarkable story and positive spirit. We truly miss her presence and the many strengths she brought to our community. There’s no doubt she will continue to accomplish great things in the future.”
Azimi plans to graduate in December 2026 and pursue a career in the investment sector while continuing her advocacy for women in crisis through her nonprofit, “Seda Empowerment.” She will carry forward the skills and experiences she has gained during her time at UW-Stevens Point and hopes other students take advantage of the opportunities available to them on campus.
“If there are networking opportunities or events on campus, please, please attend. Take networking seriously,” said Azimi.
At the same time, she encourages students to give themselves the space to grow and explore.
“It is okay if you don’t know exactly what you want yet, you’ll figure it out,” said Azimi. “Stay open, embrace new experiences, say yes to volunteering opportunities, ask plenty of questions and make the most of your professors’ office hours. Simply being at UWSP has been one of the best decisions I’ve made. I’m proud to be a Pointer and I hope others take full advantage of everything this campus has to offer.”
Written by UW-Stevens Point
Link to original story: https://www.uwsp.edu/news/marzia-azimi/