The Arab Student Union (ASU) connects Arab students throughout Florida State University in order to unite people with similar backgrounds and ideals. The President of ASU, Bana Habash, answered questions and shared exciting insights about all aspects pertaining to the Union. In addition, she disclosed information about herself, as well as her influential role in ASU.
Her Campus (HC): What is the Arab Student Union?
Bana Habash (BH): The Arab Student Union is a cultural registered student organization (RSO) focused on uniting Arab students at Florida State University. Our mission is to create a community based on similar experiences and backgrounds. Our goal is to also inform and educate others about the different and diverse cultures present in Arab countries.
HC: What events does ASU host?
BH: ASU’s goal is to create a balance between educational events and social events. In the past, we have hosted multiple game nights, movie nights, PowerPoint nights, co-sponsored events and trivia Jeopardy game nights. The purpose of these events is to bring people together to relax and socialize after a day of classes and create an environment of community and comradery. Additionally, we have hosted panels and lectures with the purpose of shedding light on important topics regarding current events in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). We also host frequent share-it nights with Tallahassee businesses in order to fundraise for the club. Finally, we have hosted multiple catered Iftars during Ramadan to create a space for cultural appreciation and community-building.
HC: How often does ASU host meetings?
BH: ASU typically likes to meet once a month for a general body meeting (GBM) and we aim to host two to three events per month outside of the GBM.
HC: Does ASU collaborate with other unions or clubs?
BH: ASU has collaborated with multiple clubs on campus! We have co-hosted events with Studio H for Healing, the Japanese Student Association, the Asian American Student Union and the Askew Student Life Center.
HC: What does a typical meeting consist of?
BH: ASU’s typical meeting will kick off with our mission statement and announcements, then we move on to ice-breakers and any event/activity we have planned for that meeting such as a trivia or Jeopardy activity.
HC: What is your role in ASU?
BH: For the past two years, I have been the President of ASU. While this role has come with many challenges and responsibilities, it is still extremely rewarding. Being able to see our efforts pay off and being able to create a community for people to turn to is a great deal more rewarding than the weight of the responsibilities.
HC: How long have you been a member of ASU?
BH: I have been a member of ASU since my freshman year. As a senior, I am extremely satisfied with the progress that we have made as a club. Seeing how far ASU has come makes me so incredibly proud.
HC: Why did you decide to join ASU?
BH: I joined ASU for the same reason that I have made our mission: I was looking for a community of people that are from the same background as myself.
Overall, Habash contributes a wonderful initiative that is able to give students a second home. She is a passionate leader who deeply cares for ASU and wishes to see it thrive. It was fascinating and informative to observe her devotion to this amazing organization.
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