Born in Kenya and a refugee from Somalia, Ambarta Noor’s cultural heritage is a vital part of her identity.

Although it plays a major part in who Noor is today, forming her identity did not come easily.  

Remaining true to her heritage while simultaneously trying to assimilate into American culture posed a challenge.

“Being an immigrant and then wanting to assimilate while your parents want you to be very Somali, (you have) those dueling personal opinions” the Communications Studies professor said. 

Although new as faculty at San Diego City College, Noor is already making an impact with her inspiring story that resonates far outside the classroom.

As an alumna of City College, it was here where she started to carve her own path.

Coming from a background that she described as a “very collectivist culture,” and then catapulting into an “individualistic society,” Noor said City College empowered her to question, introspect and find her purpose.

“In the midst of all that,” Noor said, “(I finally came) to the realization that I am my own person. My opinions matter. Who I am matters. I really formed my own identity.”

When it comes to Noor’s teaching career, she said it found her, tracing her introduction to the profession to when she helped a refugee family settle in their community and apply for school. 

Her actions did not go unnoticed, as she was recommended by the school’s principal to apply for a bilingual instructor’s aid position. 

“(I was) helping students who spoke another language kind of assimilate and accommodate their needs,” Noor said, “and (helping them) learn English.”

Noor furthered her studies at San Diego State University, where she earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in communications in 2017.

As a Somali American and a Muslim woman, Noor views her background as a “fundamental benefit” to her role as an educator at City College.

“(My identity) is integral to who I am as a teacher,” Noor said. “I can’t possibly teach without acknowledging that perspective because it’s the same perspective that led me to teaching.”

Noor also recognizes the responsibility that comes with having influence impacting those walking the same path she did.

“I’m just really happy to be here (at City),” Noor said. “I can not believe I am making a difference and students like me.”