USMC veteran Hussein Sobh named Star Biology Student
HFC student Hussein Sobh (pronounced with a long “o”) was unaware he had been named the 2025 Star Biology Student until HFC biology instructor Dr. Gregory Karapetian told him after class one day.
“I didn’t even know I was being considered for this award,” recalled Sobh. “I was leaving my anatomy class and Dr. Karapetian asked me if I heard anything. I didn’t know what he was talking about. He told me then that I won. I was surprised and happy! I’m grateful for this award; it’s an honor.”
The Star Biology Student award is sponsored by the HFC Biology Department. The criteria are focus on academic achievement in biology courses, leadership, and service. Sobh has been rewarded $500, which he will apply to his tuition at HFC during the Fall 2025 semester. Karapetian nominated Sobh for the award.
“Hussein has been a standout in my classes for two semesters – not only because of his grades and his intellect, but because of the way he interacts with others,” said Karapetian. “He is older than many of his classmates, having served in the United States Marine Corps prior to enrolling at HFC. The way he speaks with his peers is so genuine. Students seek his advice on a variety of topics, and it is nice to see the level of respect the class has for him. Hussein is going places in life. He is a star student.”
Semper Fi
Born in Lebanon, Sobh is the youngest of 10 children. His family immigrated to the United States when he was 12. His sister Walaa also attended HFC and earned her associate degree in liberal arts.
Sobh, who speaks fluent English and Arabic, as well as some French and Spanish, is an alumnus of Fordson High School. He started his education at HFC (then Henry Ford Community College) and then left to join the USMC.
Sobh has served for 12 years in the USMC, where his primary occupational specialty was explosive ordnance disposal technician. He volunteered for this job, which is a volunteer-only job because of its inherent danger. He served multiple tours overseas. His final rank when he was honorably discharged from active duty in 2024 was staff sergeant. He remains a reservist today.
“When I saw America’s involvement in what was happening overseas, I wanted to help out the country that took in my family,” he explained. “At the same time, I wanted to help the people overseas, so I answered the call to serve our nation. I was proud to serve."
Medicine is his true calling
After leaving active duty, Sobh returned to HFC.
“I had enrolled right after high school, and I didn’t do that well at that point. I wasn’t achieving the standard I wanted. After the Marine Corps, I wanted to come back and prove that I was a better student than I was 15 years ago. I’m proving it now,” said Sobh. “I love it here at HFC. It’s very accessible. The people here have been very helpful and friendly. The professors are great; they are very passionate about their students and very knowledgeable about their subject. I’m trying to take advantage of that, acting as a sponge and soaking up as much knowledge as I can.”
"Hussein Sobh is truly a standout student,” said HFC chemistry instructor Dr. Fadia Cudry. “He brings a remarkable level of dedication, curiosity, and thoughtfulness to the classroom. He’s always engaged, never misses a lecture or lab, and consistently goes above and beyond in his work. His questions spark meaningful discussions, and his ability to think critically is impressive. Hussein is not only bright and hardworking, he’s also kind, collaborative, and a positive presence in every setting. He sets a high bar and is an outstanding role model."
Sobh will graduate from HFC at the end of 2025, when he will earn his associate degree in biology. He plans to transfer to Wayne State University, where he will finish his bachelor’s degree and, hopefully, enroll in medical school at Wayne State.
“I decided to become a doctor because I’ve always wanted to help people,” he said. “That’s also why I joined the Marines. My parents have health problems, and I’ve seen how that’s affected them. The best way I can help people live healthier, better lives is through medicine. I believe everyone deserves good medical treatment and access to healthcare, whether they’re a millionaire or homeless: everyone. It’s a calling for me.”