DINÉ COLLEGE DUAL CREDIT SPOTLIGHT
The Inspiring Journey of Aryiah James: A Voice for Education, Culture, and Community
Aryiah James, an 18-year-old from Wheatfields, Arizona, is a remarkable young woman whose story is a testament to the power of determination, cultural pride, and community service. A recent graduate of Window Rock High School under the dual credit program with Diné College, Aryiah has already achieved milestones that many aspire to. Her journey is filled with lessons, challenges, and triumphs that inspire others to pursue their dreams while staying connected to their roots.
A Dual Credit Trailblazer
Aryiah’s academic journey took a significant turn during her junior year of high school when she was introduced to the dual credit program. This opportunity allowed her to earn college credits while completing her high school education. Reflecting on the experience, Aryiah shared, “I really enjoyed it because I could do my high school work and get the grade for it as a college course, rather than having to pay extra money for college later.”
Her first impression of college life was one of excitement and opportunity. “I was really excited to see this whole new environment. I made a whole new bunch of friends and learned to manage my time effectively,” she said. The dual credit program not only prepared her academically but also gave her a glimpse into the independence and responsibility of college life.
Leadership and Achievements.
Throughout high school, Aryiah demonstrated exceptional leadership skills across various organizations. She was deeply involved in the Diné Club, serving in multiple leadership roles since her first year: Vice President, then President during her sophomore and junior years, and Treasurer in her senior year. In addition, she served as Treasurer of her class as a freshman and as a class representative during her sophomore and junior years. These roles taught her to lead with empathy, organize events that bring students together, and represent her peers’ needs meaningfully.
She was also a proud member of DECA (Distributive Education Clubs of America), where she competed and earned medals at both district and state levels. This experience strengthened her confidence in public speaking, teamwork, and business leadership. Beyond school organizations, she had the honor of serving as Miss WRHS, a role that enabled her to serve as a cultural ambassador for her community. Although she recently passed on her title as Miss Window Rock High School, the responsibility to inspire and uplift others remains with her. One of her proudest personal accomplishments was receiving the Navajo Nation Seal of Bilingual Proficiency. This recognition celebrated her fluency in the Navajo language and her commitment to preserving her cultural heritage.
Aryiah’s high school experience was not without its challenges, but she approached them with resilience and a positive attitude. “Time management was key,” she explained. “I made sure to prioritize my schoolwork while staying involved in various activities. It was all about staying focused and task-oriented.”
Advocating for Education and Culture
Aryiah’s passion for education extends beyond her personal achievements. She encourages other students to consider dual credit programs, emphasizing their long-term benefits. “It’s a great opportunity because it helps you get ahead in your college career while still in high school,” she advised.
As a proud Navajo, Aryiah is deeply committed to preserving and promoting her culture. She believes in the importance of teaching the Navajo language and traditions to younger generations. “Not a lot of people my age know their clans or how to introduce themselves in Navajo,” she noted. “I want to advocate for incorporating more cultural education into schools, starting at a young age.”
Future Aspirations
Aryiah’s academic journey is far from over. Currently pursuing an associate degree in Business Administration, she has her sights set on earning a bachelor’s, master’s, and potentially a doctorate. Her ultimate goal is to become a council delegate or chapter official, where she can advocate for her community and make meaningful changes. “I want to work with the school board or my chapter and further market my way into leadership roles,” she shared. “I also want to be an advocate for the Navajo language and culture.”
A Heart for Community Service
Aryiah’s commitment to her community is evident in her actions and aspirations. She believes in the importance of giving back, particularly to older people. Recalling a recent experience, she said, “My friends and I helped an elderly couple who needed assistance. It reminded me how important it is to cherish and care for our elders. They’ve paved the way for us, and it’s our responsibility to give back.”
A Message of Gratitude
Aryiah credits her family, especially her parents and grandparents, for her success. “Without them, I wouldn’t strive to be who I am today,” she said. Their unwavering support and encouragement have been the foundation of her achievements.
Aryiah James is a shining example of how determination, cultural pride, and a commitment to community can lead to a fulfilling and impactful life.
Her journey serves as an inspiration to students, leaders, and anyone striving to make a difference in their community. As she continues to pursue her goals, there’s no doubt that Aryiah will leave a lasting legacy, both as a leader and as a proud advocate for her culture.
