Name:Â
Dhefaf Alwazir
Age:
19
Major:
Undeclared but my plan is to major in International studies with a concentration in Arabic & Middle Eastern studies and a minor in Religious Studies
Hometown:
Born and raised in Potomac, Maryland but originally from Sanaa, Yemen
Why did you choose VCU?
I believe that in order for one to academically excel, one must be comfortable in their chosen atmosphere. I narrowed down my options to either James Madison University, or VCU. Upon visiting JMU, I felt uncomfortable. There was no color. I was looking for diversity, and when I say diversity, I don’t mean just black and white. I mean Black, White, Hispanic, Latino, Asians, Arabs…etc. When I visited VCU, I found my definition of diversity. I felt a sense of comfort and ease, like I could adjust here and I could live here. I saw people that looked like me, sitting with people that didn’t look at me. That exact sense of diversity is what made me choose VCU.
Who are your role models and influences?
As cliché, as this might sound, my role models and influences come from within. I am fortunate because the inspiration to strive for the better comes from my family.
My grandfather was beheaded for calling for change in Yemen, and my father and his siblings were imprisoned.You can only imagine my life, coming from a revolutionary family, that inspiration was always there. My father and uncles never had the chance to attend any type of educational institute whether it be school, college, university…etc. My motivation to finish high school, to get my degree and to keep going comes from my father.
Another significant role model is my brother, Yahya. Yahya has Down’s syndrome, but that has not stopped him from succeeding. He’s moved on to college, lives independently, participates in the Special Olympics, and works at a hotel near school. At times, I feel insecure. I am so afraid of failing. I hate to be looked at differently. But I am happy for Yahya, because he taught me that you can succeed when life fails you. As long as you persevere, love, and dedicate yourself with passion, success will ensue. For all that money I spend on make-up so I look beautiful, looking at his abnormally small chin, unusual round face, almond shaped eyes, short limbs, and stubby hands I see Yahya as the most beautiful person on earth.
What organizations are you involved with at VCU?
I am currently the president of the Arab Student Association. I am also a Conversation Partner and a Peer Educator at the Global Education Office. I work closely with board members of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People I’m a member of the Muslim Student Association, Egyptian Student Association, Tigris & Euphrates Association, Saudi Student Society.
What is the mission of the Arab Student Association?
Arabs are a topic of controversy, especially in the media. We’re here as Arab ambassadors to the US. We aim to spread awareness about the Arab world, its culture, and modern issues in the region. We also work to bridge the various cultural gaps between the Arab World and the United States, in the hopes of promoting a mutual and firm understanding. Last but not least, the ASA is meant to create a sense of community for all Arabs and Arab Americans on campus.
What motivates you to be a leader?Â
The ultimate success of the organization. The job is far from easy, but the results are definitely worth it.What are your plans for the future? Considering the fact that I am still undeclared, my career path is still a blur to me. I do hope to be able to open up a make up salon one day!
What do you like to do in your free time?
Make up!! I have an obsession with make up. I’m currently working on a portfolio of my work.Â
What is an interesting fact about you?
I was born an aunt! My brother got married and had kids before I was even born.