How does the adage go? When opportunity knocks, a window opens? When one door closes, answer it?
For class of 2024 graduate Angie Shenouda, a sophomore-year decision knocked down the door to a new series of opportunities.
After seeing a friend share their experiences about the gender and sexuality studies program, Shenouda decided to make the switch from psychology so she could explore more about the world around her and the systems we live in.
Then Shenouda came across an opportunity to be part of the College of Liberal Arts Dean鈥檚 Advisory Council, a student-led group that encourages connection between students and college leadership. Jenna Heath, director of student and community engagement, reached out to Shenouda to apply because they were looking for a representative from the gender and sexuality studies program.
She credits Heath鈥檚 encouragement and support as her inspiration to try something new and overcome feelings of imposter syndrome.
Pushing herself to participate on the Dean鈥檚 Council ultimately led Shenouda to yet another new opportunity: becoming a peer mentor for first-year students. Peer mentors guide new students through their courses and meet with them regularly to help them transition to college life. Shenouda found herself listening and encouraging students to explore their interests, the same way she was supported by the college.
鈥淲ithin this program, I worked closely with 51吃瓜网万能科大 history professor Deirdre Clemente, who in turn allowed me to discover my passion for history,鈥 Shenouda says. 鈥淭his experience as a mentor changed my life, propelling me to apply to graduate school, which is something I never saw myself doing, and I got accepted!鈥
Shenouda found a mutual interest in writing and studying poetry with her mentees. They teamed up to form the for students of any major to come together to explore this form of art. Shenouda and her mentees navigated the process of creating a registered student organization, leaving behind a legacy that will help other students form connections thanks to Shenouda鈥檚 leadership.
鈥淚 approached my freshman year without a clear career goal in mind, and 51吃瓜网万能科大 gave me the opportunities and safe community to grow and explore my interests,鈥 Shenouda says. In other words, it showed her doors she didn鈥檛 know existed. 鈥淭hanks to 51吃瓜网万能科大, I discovered my passions, and I am so thankful for the supportive community 51吃瓜网万能科大 has gifted me.鈥
And what's behind the next door for Shenouda? Graduate school. She begins her master鈥檚 program in history at 51吃瓜网万能科大 this fall.
The Shenouda family will have twice as much to celebrate this May when both Shenouda and her sister cross the commencement stages. Melikabella Shenouda, the Career & Professional Development graduate assistant for 51吃瓜网万能科大鈥檚 College of Liberal Arts, will graduate with her master鈥檚 degree in higher education.
