Tell us about your path to GS.
I was born in Kenya, but grew up in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia and then, later, Maryland. I grew up performing and had the good fortune to attend Juilliard directly out of high school to study drama. Shortly after my career picked up, I developed an itch to apply myself in other ways. Juilliard is an arts conservatory, so you don't get to experience a liberal arts education. I knew that I wanted to build a life as an artist and creator, but also knew that I was eager to explore my intellectual passions. So, I made the decision to take non-degree classes concurrently with my performing endeavors. Once I got my sea legs in the classroom, I applied to GS at the suggestion of a friend and colleague who herself was an alumna of the program. I am grateful for the last four years and am eager for the next step.
What has been your proudest accomplishment at Columbia?
I am proud of the research I have been fortunate to engage in here. As an undergraduate, you are primarily consuming knowledge, so to get the opportunity to actually produce knowledge was invaluable. I have also had the good fortune to share my knowledge and experience as a theatre professional with the Columbia community–primarily as director and choreographer. To share that piece of myself with my peers has meant a lot to me. I have met some amazing people through that work.
Who are some people who have contributed the most to your Columbia experience?
My senior thesis advisor Professor Thai Jones of the Department of History has been a great intellectual model for me. He has such humanity and concern for the world beyond the university. He is a model of the kind of scholar I would want to be. Professor Roger Lehecka of the Center for American Studies has been a friend and mentor to me through thick and thin and his encouragement has gotten me through so much. I have been inspired by the student artists and performers who have created original theatre work here as well. It is moving to see their work in action. The Department of History, my home department, has also been a source of inspiration for me.
What are your plans for after graduation?
I will continue working as a director and choreographer, and performing in theatre. I am actually developing my own original, full-length musical, which I am excited about. I also want to obtain a PhD in history.
What advice would you give to a student who's about to start their GS journey?
Try everything: These four years (or two years, or three, or more–however long you're here) go by so fast and there is so much here to sink your teeth into. So, I would say be bold, take a leap, and you will find yourself along the way.
We all suffer from imposter syndrome at some point, so you're not alone in your anxieties and uncertainties, but trust that you are here because you have much to offer and you can do the work. Just follow your instincts and your curiosity.
Lastly, stay connected with the world beyond the university–Columbia University's history with the surrounding neighborhood is contentious, to say the least. Engage with the community that surrounds the school.
