Abdur Rehman Tariq: Outstanding Graduate Student in Literacy, Language and Culture

Abdur Rehman (Amman) Tariq of Sargodha, Pakistan is the 2026 Outstanding Graduate Student in Literacy, Language and Culture in the University of Maine College of Education and Human Development. Tariq is graduating with a Ph.D. in Education (Literacy Education concentration). His dissertation is titled “Developing a TESOL Teacher Training Program for the Outer and External Circles: A Curriculum Design and Development Project.” Tariq has also authored or co-authored multiple journal articles and other scholarly publications during his time at 91¸£Àû.

Why did you choose 91¸£Àû for graduate school?

I served as a Fulbright Foreign Language Instructor in the Department of Modern Languages and Classics during the 2019–2020 academic year. During that time, I also took several courses as a non-degree student in the College of Education and Human Development. It was a deeply enriching experience, both in and outside the classroom, as I had the opportunity to teach, learn and engage meaningfully with students and colleagues at 91¸£Àû. That period played an important role in shaping my academic and professional journey and inspired me to pursue my Ph.D. at this beautiful university.

Have you collaborated with a mentor, professor or role model who made your time at 91¸£Àû better, and if so, who are they and how have they impacted your time at 91¸£Àû?

During my time at 91¸£Àû as a graduate student, many faculty members helped me develop both academically and professionally. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Dr. William Dee Nichols, Dr. Susan Bennett-Armstead and my advisor Dr. Timothy Reagan for their continuous support and guidance throughout my time at 91¸£Àû.

What has 91¸£Àû enabled you to explore beyond academics?

I was given the opportunity to teach and get involved in different research projects to prepare myself professionally. As an educator and researcher, I appreciate the opportunity to work with Dr. Catharine Biddle, who introduced me to rural education in Maine. I also got to meet many people, including school administrators, principals and teachers across Maine.

What advice do you have for incoming graduate students to help them get off to the best start academically?

Set small goals, be consistent with them and keep recalibrating. Trust the process and you will love the outcome.

What’s on the horizon? What are your plans for after you graduate? 

I plan to stay in Maine. I will begin working for the University of Maine at Augusta in fall 2026 as a postdoc scholar.

Special thank you message:

My heartfelt thanks to my parents, my wife and children for their unconditional love, patience, and for believing in me even when things felt overwhelming.