Reem Ahmed, a junior who grew up in Lincoln mere minutes away from campus, is passionate about helping Husker students use their voices to positively shape the university she knows and loves.
As Chief of Staff for the Association of Students of the University of Nebraska, Ahmed juggles incoming communications from all over — from her fellow ASUN executive team, university leadership, ASUN senators and more. However, who she most wants to hear from this fall semester is Husker students.
“Our big initiative is ensuring that students from all corners of campus have access to ASUN and making sure that students engage with us more,” she said. “We really want to make sure that ASUN is seen as a resource that can support you, stand by you and advocate for you in any way possible.”
Being an advocate for the student body feels like a natural progression of Ahmed's journey as a Husker. Growing up 10 minutes away from campus, she’s always felt a special connection to the communities the university serves. In turn, she’s carving out a college experience dedicated to serving her own communities and fellow students.
“As someone who grew up in Lincoln, I'm really passionate about this university," Ahmed said. "Through this organization, I’ve realized how passionate I am not only about my own experience, but the student experience in general — especially for students who look like me.”
For her, advocating on behalf of one student’s or group's needs improves campus for everybody.
“I'm really passionate about advocating for students from minority and marginalized groups and, in turn, that means I'm advocating to make sure that UNL is the best place it can be for all students in general," she said.
As the new school year begins, Ahmed encourages everyone — especially first-year students — to get involved in some way, whether it’s through ASUN or something else — the most important part is to establish a community.
“I’m so excited to get back into events, meeting, and talking to people. Finding your people and your community on campus is so, so important,” she said.
And for those interested in ASUN?
“Please, come talk to us, see where we can help, facilitate or collaborate,” Ahmed said. “There’s space for everyone on campus within ASUN, for sure.”
