Bita Dabir is the kind of person who is not easily deterred from her personal or professional mission. Her family, friends, and colleagues all know she creates her own path rather than following others. Her independent mindset, ability to adapt to any situation, and her tendency to stand out from the crowd are all qualities that have prepared her for the next chapter in her life’s journey.    

An entrepreneur at heart, Bita started her own business with a girlfriend, serving as a wardrobe stylist for San Francisco Bay-area socialites. The business thrived until the pandemic unceremoniously brought all social activities, along with her fledgling company, to a screeching halt. “That’s when I decided I needed more stability, so I applied for a position at Coldwell Banker Realty,” explained Bita. “The next day, a recruiter contacted me, leading to an interview with the branch manager and then a job offer as a senior office administrator. At first, my manager’s sky-high expectations made me second-guess taking the job. Still, I’m grateful for that decision today, as her leadership inspired my return to school and pursuit of completing my Bachelor of Science degree.”

Bita Dabir, UWLA BS ‘24,  and her sister Ayda  Mirafshar (UWLA JD ‘23)

Bita began her college education at Pierce College in Woodland Hills, California, years earlier, completing her studies in 1998. After hearing about the University of West Los Angeles (UWLA) from her sister, Ayda, who graduated Salutatorian in 2023 from UWLA School of Law, Bita decided the school’s smaller and more intimate program perfectly suited her. “Ayda really advocated for the school, and once I went through the interview process, I felt totally confident this was the right institution to help me succeed,” stated Bita. 

She readily admits there were times during her studies when she faced challenges balancing her commitments, handling unexpected hurdles, and managing family matters – all of which demanded her attention – but her resolve and resilience have paid off.  “No matter what, I have remained unwavering in my determination to succeed,” offered Bita. “Despite encountering difficulties, I have persevered, never losing sight of my goals. I just finished my first year at UWLA and am pleased with the professors and staff. Their support and encouragement have been exceptional.”

She singles out Professor Perry Martin, in particular, for special praise. “Amongst professors, he’s the one I hold in the highest regard,” stated Bita. “I have found his class to be the most enriching regarding critical thinking. His unwavering commitment to perfectionism is remarkable. I believe that when someone is genuinely passionate about their field and sets high standards and expectations from students, they tend to bring the best out in their students.”

The feeling is mutual, according to Professor Martin.

“Bita's story is not that of the typical adult learner,” said Martin. “Her desire for excellence in all of her academic assessments is not particularly extraordinary among our wonderful UWLA students. However, Bita’s thirst for knowledge and willingness to apply what she's learning truly sets her apart. She eagerly shares insights, epiphanies, and experiences within the framework of each course I have taught her.”

Bita firmly has her sights set on the next chapter of her professional life. After completing her Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration (expected, 2024) and then pursuing a Master's Degree in Business at UWLA, she plans to leverage her education to pursue a career in the Silicon Valley Venture Capital industry. “I intend to significantly contribute to the VC industry, fostering innovation and growth,” added Bita. “My ultimate objective is to make a lasting impact and become a respected leader within this competitive and ever-evolving sector.”

She believes UWLA is vital to her future success. “UWLA is effectively equipping me for the next phase of my career by allowing me to study while maintaining my current full-time position,” concluded Bita. “UWLA will ensure I possess the necessary degrees to chase my dream. For anyone contemplating pursuing a degree at UWLA, remember it’s never too late to embark on this journey. Embrace the opportunity and go for it. Education is an enduring asset that remains with you, impervious to outside influences. Education is an investment that can’t be taken away.”

We applaud Bita's dogged determination to improve herself and achieve her educational and professional objectives.