Student embraces diversity at RIT

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Aksa Asgher, a third-year new media marketing student and secretary for RIT’s Global Union, encourages students to share their diversity on campus.

Aksa Asgher, a third-year new media marketing student with an advertising and public relations minor, has always had an interest in exploring different cultures and traditions beyond her own American-Pakistani background. From taking a course in Arabic to joining multiple culture clubs on campus, including the Global Union, Asgher is grateful that RIT has exposed her to so many different backgrounds.

Question: Where are you from?
Answer: I’m from Corning, N.Y.

Q: What brought you to RIT?
A: I decided on RIT because of the diversity in academic programs and in the student body. Coming from a small town, I wanted to gain more exposure to different cultures and backgrounds, which is why I am proud that RIT fosters such an initiative. Secondly, the co-op requirement intrigued me because it’s very worthwhile and gives RIT students a great advantage once released into the workforce.

Q: For those that haven’t heard of Global Union, what do they do?
A: Global Union’s mission is to essentially provide services and a safe haven for international students. Whether that is through hosting events or participating in different culture clubs, we aim to ensure that students feel they are part of the RIT community. We also strive to bridge the gap between domestic and international students and foster that relationship. Since we are student run, we have the advantage of communicating with our peers firsthand and addressing their needs. We’re actually hosting Unification, our biggest annual event, this Saturday from 7 to 11 p.m. Feb. 2 in the Ingle Auditorium, Student Alumni Union.

Q: Why should someone go to Unification?
A: Unification is the world on stage and it’s the best show of the year. It’s a chance for culture clubs to perform and share their diversity with the community and for the audience to learn and embrace the differences that we all possess. It’s also a competition amongst all the performers—so let the best act win!

Q: What is something that you are proud of?
A: I won second place at Unification with the RIT Bhangra team. Bhangra is a traditional dance style, originating from the province of Punjab, Pakistan, to celebrate a fruitful harvest season.

Q: What is something that most people might not know about you?
A: I am the biggest Michael Bublé fan and I’m interested in graphic design.

Q: What types of things do you do around campus?
A: I am an executive board member of the Women in Business Club, the Brand Ambassador for Barnes & Noble at RIT, a referee for intramural soccer games and the secretary of Global Union. I try to help out with other clubs whenever I can—if only I could do it all.

Q: What do you plan on doing after graduation?
A: I hopefully plan to attend graduate school. Otherwise I’ll keep my options open and maybe work for an ad agency or travel more. The possibilities are endless!

Q: Any advice you would give to other RIT students?
A: Take advantage of learning ASL and getting to know the other unique qualities of RIT. And I haven’t done this yet, but if the opportunity arises, study abroad.

Matt Gregory compiles “Student Spotlights” for University News. Contact him at msg2110@rit.edu with suggestions.