How does the adage go? When opportunity knocks, a window opens? When one door closes, answer it?
For class of 2024 graduate Angie Shenouda, a sophomore-year decision knocked down the door to a new series of opportunities.
After seeing a friend share their experiences about the gender and sexuality studies program, Shenouda decided to make the switch from psychology so she could explore more about the world around her and the systems we live in.
Then Shenouda came across an opportunity to be part of the College of Liberal Arts Dean’s Advisory Council, a student-led group that encourages connection between students and college leadership. Jenna Heath, director of student and community engagement, reached out to Shenouda to apply because they were looking for a representative from the gender and sexuality studies program.
She credits Heath’s encouragement and support as her inspiration to try something new and overcome feelings of imposter syndrome.
Pushing herself to participate on the Dean’s Council ultimately led Shenouda to yet another new opportunity: becoming a peer mentor for first-year students. Peer mentors guide new students through their courses and meet with them regularly to help them transition to college life. Shenouda found herself listening and encouraging students to explore their interests, the same way she was supported by the college.
“Within this program, I worked closely with UNLV history professor Deirdre Clemente, who in turn allowed me to discover my passion for history,” Shenouda says. “This experience as a mentor changed my life, propelling me to apply to graduate school, which is something I never saw myself doing, and I got accepted!”
Shenouda found a mutual interest in writing and studying poetry with her mentees. They teamed up to form the for students of any major to come together to explore this form of art. Shenouda and her mentees navigated the process of creating a registered student organization, leaving behind a legacy that will help other students form connections thanks to Shenouda’s leadership.
“I approached my freshman year without a clear career goal in mind, and UNLV gave me the opportunities and safe community to grow and explore my interests,” Shenouda says. In other words, it showed her doors she didn’t know existed. “Thanks to UNLV, I discovered my passions, and I am so thankful for the supportive community UNLV has gifted me.”
And what's behind the next door for Shenouda? Graduate school. She begins her master’s program in history at UNLV this fall.
The Shenouda family will have twice as much to celebrate this May when both Shenouda and her sister cross the commencement stages. Melikabella Shenouda, the Career & Professional Development graduate assistant for UNLV’s College of Liberal Arts, will graduate with her master’s degree in higher education.
