Long before arriving at Maryville College, Rukhshona Isomova ’26 was sharing her love for her homeland with visitors wandering the historic streets of Bukhara, Uzbekistan. As a young child, she eagerly approached travelers to tell them about her country, revealing a curiosity and confidence that would eventually carry her halfway around the world.

Last month, Isomova graduated from Maryville College with degrees in Finance/Accounting and International Studies. Along the way, she became one of the institution’s most accomplished seniors, earning nominations for the Carl ’63 and Jean McDonald Outstanding Senior Award, the Judson B. Murphy Endowed Business Award and the Jackson Outstanding International Student Award.

Commencement marked a fitting conclusion to her college experience.

“Everything the College organized for us made the day feel so meaningful,” she said. “I was amazed by the care the president, faculty and staff put into every detail.”

Moments before the ceremony began, she learned she would be the first graduate called to the stage.

“It was unexpected and a little nerve-racking, but it felt like such an honor,” she said.

America Bound

Growing up in a multigenerational household, Isomova developed a deep appreciation for education and culture. As high school graduation approached, she applied to 20 colleges across the United States after learning about American higher education through EducationUSA at the U.S. Embassy in Tashkent.

Maryville College not only accepted her but also awarded her a full-tuition International Diversity Scholarship. A welcoming message from fellow Uzbek student Shokhrukh Samadov ’23 and guidance from Center for Global Engagement staff convinced her she had found the right place.

“I’ve never regretted coming here,” she said.

Arriving in July 2022, she quickly discovered that American college life extended well beyond the classroom.

“In Uzbekistan, we didn’t have student clubs like this,” she said. “Here, there were so many opportunities to develop myself, take responsibility, and become independent.”

She became active in the Global Citizenship Organization, Latino Student Alliance, TEDxMaryville and Student Programming Board while building friendships across campus.

Academically, she appreciated Maryville’s flexibility, which allowed her to study beyond her majors and remain engaged throughout each semester.

An MC Ambassador

Returning home during school breaks, Isomova encouraged local students to consider studying abroad. Many later began applying to American colleges.

“There are so many opportunities,” she said. “Sometimes we just pass them by.”

She believes Maryville’s close-knit environment offered personal, professional, and academic growth she might not have found at a larger university.

Dr. Scott Henson, professor of political science and interim director of the Center for Global Engagement, said Isomova made a lasting impact on the campus.

“Rukhshona brought hospitality, respect for others, and joy for life,” he said. “She enriched every classroom with curiosity and helped people better understand both her culture and their own.”

Despite her many accomplishments, Isomova remains humble.

“I don’t even speak good English, and I’m not that involved,” she joked before reflecting on how much she had grown.

“I came all the way from Uzbekistan, built my life here and figured things out on my own. I guess I am proud of myself.”

A Family and a Home Away from Home

Throughout her time at Maryville, faculty members, mentors and host families helped create a support system that made campus feel like home. She served as an admissions ambassador, represented international students in Student Government Association and worked as a student donor experience officer in the Office of Advancement.

Vice President for Admissions and Financial Aid Dr. Alayne Bowman described her as “bright, energetic and determined,” adding that her graduation is “just another milestone in her long, successful journey.”

Working with alumni also reinforced the importance of giving back.

“I realized you’re not just asking people to contribute,” she said. “You’re building relationships with graduates who genuinely care about students.”

Looking back, Isomova credits Maryville College with transforming her life.

“Coming to the U.S. was exciting and challenging, but the professors, mentors, friends, and community made all the difference,” she said. “The experiences and relationships I gained here will always be part of who I am.”

She has accepted a position as a financial counselor with 21st Mortgage Corporation in downtown Knoxville and plans to pursue an MBA beginning in 2027.

“I’ve had so much love and respect for this College since day one,” she said. “I wouldn’t have achieved so much without the support of this community.”

Maryville College is a nationally ranked institution of higher learning and one of America’s oldest colleges, located in Maryville, Tennessee, between the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the city of Knoxville. Maryville College offers more than 60 majors, seven pre-professional programs and career preparation from their first day on campus to their last, in the words of our Presbyterian founder, to “do good on the largest possible scale.”

Karen Eldridge, Executive Director of Communications: karen.eldridge@maryvillecollege.edu.

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