Hajar Mohammad

Why did you choose journalism as your major?

I came to Knox as an international relations major, which would have formed a base for law school. However, as I discussed my course load with my advisor, Tianna Cervantez, associate dean of Intercultural Life, I realized that the classes did not interest me, so I switched to a peace and justice major with a minor in education. However, towards the end of my first year at Knox, I wrote an article for a magazine called Byrdie and  realized how much I loved writing it and decided journalism was what I wanted to pursue as a career. I also have a self-designed minor in media marketing, which is something I have worked on before and am passionate about! Eventually, this combination should form a strong foundation for graduate school. 

What are some of your extracurricular activities on the Knox campus?

I am currently the president of the Islamic Club, which I was a general member of in my first-year and served as the vice president of in my second-year here at Knox. Being president certainly comes with a lot of responsibilities and its fair share of stress. However, as one of the only Hijabi on the Knox campus, I feel the responsibility to educate people about Islam. There is a great deal of misinformation about the religion in the world, which I believe must be rectified and, well, change begins at home. This was one of the main purposes of Islam Awareness Week, which was conducted in fall term of 2022. It touched on the key issues revolving around the misconceptions of the religion. I am pleased to say we had a great Muslim and non-Muslim turnout. I think Islamic Week certainly helped several of the Muslim-identifying members of our community feel more comfortable in the environment and gave them a space to talk about the religion. For Ramadan this year, as president, I am also in close contact with Dining Services to provide appropriate food for the month. The COVID-19 pandemic had made the impact of Islamic Club rather subdued, but I am glad we can connect with more people now. I am thankful to Knox for giving us the opportunity to make our voice heard. 

What is something you like about Knox? 

Knox is one of the most diverse campuses, with people from all over the world. The international student population is massive, and I have found several friends from different parts of the globe. The diversity at Knox is commendable and, with various events such as the International Fair and the multitude of cultural clubs, there is always something new to learn. I have been introduced to concepts I would not have known about otherwise. The large diversity also presents different perspectives on the same situation. Meeting with people from all over the world certainly helps gauge the various global issues that are prevalent in the world. I am grateful for having the opportunity to interact with other globally minded citizens of the world.

What is some advice you would give to prospective students?

I think that while it is important to put yourself out there and explore different opportunities, it is also important to go at your own pace. Doing something simply because everyone else is doing it will only hurt you. You also don’t have to do everything and it is okay to take breaks. Being in college can be stressful, so it is crucial to take care of yourself and your mental health. Most importantly, believe in yourself and you can do anything that you put your mind to.