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  7. Alena Farooq, '18

Academics

Alena Farooq, '18

Alena FarooqMajor: Social Entrepreneurship & Business
Institutes: Gerald R. Ford Institute for Leadership in Public Policy and Service,  Carl A. Gerstacker Institute for Business and Management, Prentiss M. Brown Honors Program
Hometown: West Bloomfield, MI

With what organizations are you involved on campus?

  • Omicron Delta Kappa (National Honors Leadership Society)
  • Muslim Student Association
  • Intercultural Affairs
  • Campus Wellness

Why did you choose Ford?

I wanted to learn more about how I can make a direct impact not just in the world, but specifically in Albion.

What current issue/topic is important to you?

Revitalizing Albion. Ever since I stepped foot on campus, I've loved the surrounding community and have wanted to be a part of its exciting new developments. I've really enjoyed getting involved at City Hall and the Food Hub and doing what I can to make a difference.

What has been the most influential moment for you thus far at Albion College?

It's hard to narrow it down to one moment. It's a collection of moments, really. It's incredible to see just how committed the staff and faculty are to helping students do what they need to do. If you're passionate about something about would like to do something about it, Patrick, Amy and Eddie will be by your side to help make that happen. If you're looking for an internship or any sort of learning opportunity, all you have to do is ask. It's that simple - Albion always pulls through for its students.

What do you envision yourself doing after Albion?

With each experience I have here, it seems that my vision for the future changes just a little bit. I came to Albion with no idea what I wanted to do with the rest of my life, but knew I had a passion for public service. I joined the Ford and Gerstacker institutes and quickly found what I'm passionate about is their exact intersection: social entrepreneurship and business. After graduating, I'd like to spend one to two years with either AmeriCorps VISTA or the Peace Corps, and then get a few years of work experience in a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)-related role before pursuing my MBA.

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