Rawan El Bayouk

Pronouns: 

She/Her

Major: 

Economics

Hometown: 

Cairo, Egypt 

What are your campus involvements? 

International Education Exchange Council, Global Ambassador at Global Engagement Office, Outdoor Pursuits Student Supervisor, Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society

What is your favorite memory or experience at SSU? 

One of my favorite memories at Sonoma State University is when I participated in an Outdoor Pursuit summer training trip. It was a weekend filled with hiking, paddle boarding, rock climbing, camping, and backpacking. It involved a lot of teamwork and skill-building activities. I connected with fellow students who share my passion for the outdoors, and we tackled challenges that pushed us out of our comfort zones.

What has been the most challenging part of your college experience and what did you learn from it? 

The most challenging part of my college experience has been balancing my coursework with my extracurricular activities. As an economics major, I often found myself overwhelmed by the demands of my classes while also trying to fulfill my commitments as an Outdoor Pursuits Student Supervisor at the Rec, and a member of the International Education Exchange Council.

This struggle taught me the importance of time management and prioritization. I learned to create schedules, set goals, and break tasks into smaller, manageable steps. I also discovered the value of seeking support from peers and professors when I needed help. This experience strengthened my resilience and adaptability, skills that I know will benefit me in my future career.

What brought you to SSU, and what motivates you to stay? 

I was drawn to SSU for its welcoming community and beautiful campus. The friendly atmosphere made it feel like a great fit for me as an international student.

What motivates me to stay at SSU is the supportive environment and the opportunities for personal and academic growth. I appreciate the small class sizes, which allow for more interaction with professors and classmates.

The resources available for us as students, such as academic advising and career services, also encourage me to pursue my goals. I feel that SSU gives me an environment where I can thrive both academically and personally.

Who at SSU has influenced you and/or made an impact on your journey here? 

One person who has greatly influenced my journey at Sonoma State University is Hope Ortiz. Her support and encouragement have made a significant impact on my experience as an international student. She has helped me deal with various challenges at work and has always been there to offer guidance.

Additionally, one of my Economics professors played a crucial role in my decision to switch to an Economics major. Their passion for the subject and engaging teaching style sparked my interest and showed me the relevance of economics in understanding real-world issues. Together, their support and encouragement have inspired me to pursue my academic goals with confidence.