Laila Nawab, from Munster, is graduating in May with a bachelor’s degree in chemistry.
Nawab decided to tackle the challenging chemistry degree after taking a few AP-level science classes in high school. “I knew I wanted to be a science major, and I heard from some family friends that the science program at Indiana University Northwest was very good,” Nawab explained. “After my AP classes, I realized how much I enjoyed chemistry, so I chose chemistry as my major.”
When asked what she appreciated most about her college career, Nawab cited two qualities she found at IU Northwest: the small professor-to-student ratio and the extra-curricular experiences. “Small class sizes allowed me to gain a close relationship with my professors, which is something I greatly cherish,” Nawab said.
Living at home but still getting the big-campus feeling was also important. “I have also really enjoyed the many opportunities that IU Northwest has to offer, and it has really given me a more traditional college experience while living at home.” For instance, Nawab and other students represented IU Northwest at the annual Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI) Regatta—a head-to-head canoe race among all the IU campuses.
A recipient of several College of Arts and Sciences scholarships and awards, such as the Outstanding Freshman in Chemistry and the Outstanding Student in Physical Chemistry, Nawab still found time to be involved with student life. “I have been a member of the Student Alumni Association and Pre-Professional Studies Club, and I have held executive positions in the Muslim Student Association, Student Activities Board, and Student Government Association,” Nawab said. Serving as president of the Student Government and vice-president of the Student Activities Board afforded Nawab the opportunity to attend national conferences in Washington, D.C. and Boston.
“During my time at IU Northwest, I was very involved in student organizations and was always busy with something” she said, “so I have decided to take a gap year and relax.” During her gap year, Nawab plans on applying to medical school to continue her career goal of becoming a physician.
Nawab has no regrets about her decision to attend IU Northwest.
“I always think about what would’ve happened if I had gone to a bigger campus,” she said, “and am always happy about my decision to attend IU Northwest because I know that I would not have had such a great experience elsewhere.”