I came from Tanzania in 2015 as an international student. A feeling of home, a sense of belonging and my community were all built right here. It’s what has kept me at MacEwan for so long.

Now, as a leadership education specialist, I can reflect on what I missed out on as a student and what students need right now as I plan activities and events. I try to make things easier than they were for me. And as an international student, there were days when I would break down crying because I was homesick. So when I have students come in, I always ask, “What do you need?” We can always go grab a coffee or go for a walk. Students need to go to school, to work, to volunteer – there are a lot of expectations, and I give some flexibility where I can so that they know we can accommodate them and meet them where they are at.

We also do the Emerging Leader Certificate program, where we try to touch on things that students don’t necessarily learn in class, like the foundations of leadership, emotional intelligence and conflict resolution. And I’m here to help students looking for volunteer opportunities, including MacEwan Ambassadors and Golden Key members. When you volunteer, it gives one a sense of fulfillment, gratitude and community. I love seeing the moment when students get that feeling.

I want new students to know it’s okay to ask questions. Sometimes I feel like we’re so scared to do that, but I promise it’s okay. Be that person. Go to office hours. Make new friends! Find what you’re passionate about. You will have more experiences and become more confident. This is the place to make mistakes, because it prepares us for the world after. 

– Nooshin Walji, Bachelor of Arts ’21, Leadership Education Specialist, Student Life