Sumaiya Imad (left) participates in the Social Science Scholars volunteer project at Charlie’s Sunshine Garden.
“I chose economics because it sits at the intersection of policy and decision-making, which aligns perfectly with my goal of pursuing law,” Sumaiya Imad said, Michigan State University economics junior. “Economics gives me the tools to understand how policies shape societies, and I want to use that knowledge to advocate for meaningful change.”
During her time at MSU, Sumaiya is living her values of making a difference, both through her career focus but also the focus of her time outside of the classroom. Some of the places she's been involved in on campus include the Honors College, Social Science Scholars Program, Women’s Leadership Institute, Community-Engaged Scholars Program, MSU College of Law Pre-Law Mentorship Program, and Generations Connect.
“Each of these experiences has shaped my journey, allowing me to grow as a leader, researcher, and advocate,” she reflected. “Through my volunteer work, I’ve had the chance to make a real difference. One of my proudest moments was winning the Schoenl Grant from the Honors College and using those funds to help 30 women become financially stable through vocational training and mental health support.”
She also had the opportunity to conduct research through the Women’s Leadership Institute and the Tomlanovich-Diamond Research Fund, and intern as a Community-Engaged Scholar at Michigan Institute for Contemporary Art, where she helped with grant writing and community engagement. Because of her volunteer work, Sumaiya recently received the Spartan Volunteer Service Award and the MSU Outreach and Engagement Award from MSU Outreach and Engagement.
Sumaiya Imad (right) received first place at the University Undergraduate Research and Arts Forum in April, 2025.
Sumaiya has recently been selected as a Robert F. Kennedy John Lewis Young Leader, an undergraduate fellowship that equips students with the necessary skills to become effective social justice and civic leaders.
“As part of the fellowship, I’ll be proposing a dedicated community service day through the Women's Leadership Institute at the College of Social Science, with the hope that the impact of this work lives on even after I graduate,” she said.
Additionally, Sumaiya has been named a Dalai Lama Fellow, a global leadership program that supports young changemakers who are committed to building a more compassionate and just world. The program follows a “head, heart, and hands” approach, encouraging Fellows to think critically, lead with empathy, and take meaningful action in their communities.
“As a Dalai Lama Fellow, I want to build a mental health workshop that follows this approach for women who have endured immense trauma from trafficking,” Sumaiya said. “My vision is to create a space where survivors can heal, reclaim their agency, and develop the tools to rebuild their lives. I plan to integrate mindfulness practices, cognitive behavioral therapy techniques, and vocational empowerment, ensuring that the women I work with are supported holistically. Through this fellowship, I hope to grow as a leader, expand my impact, and learn from a global network of changemakers.”
Sumaiya Imad receives Spartan Volunteer Service Award, celebrated by Dr. John Waller and Samyuktha Iyer, Directors of the Social Science Scholars Program.
As Sumaiya has worked to support others, she has also benefited from the support systems here on campus such as the Social Science Scholars Program that brings together a small group of students for an intensive academic experience that combines mentored research, community engagement, and leadership development. They dive deep into complex global and social issues, engage in interdisciplinary discussions and work on real-world research projects that push them to think critically and act with purpose.
“Almost every interaction in the Scholars Room is memorable, but my favorite memory is from my very first day on campus. My fellow scholars and I gathered at Charlie’s Sunshine Garden for a cohort bonding event, and I immediately felt a sense of belonging. We spent the day cleaning the garden, preparing soil, and planting strawberries and other produce that would later be donated to the Lansing community and a women’s shelter- something deeply close to my heart. We worked side by side, getting our hands dirty, laughing, and sharing stories. At the end of the day, we sat under a big tree enjoying tacos from a Mexican grocery store down the street, talking about our hopes for the years ahead. It was a moment of connection, and I knew then that this program would shape my college experience in a profound way.”
Beyond the friendships and the academic rigor, Sumaiya is deeply grateful for the support of Dr. Waller and Samyuktha Iyer, who have had a meaningful impact on her journey.
“Their guidance and faith in my potential have empowered me to dream bigger, work harder, and trust in my own abilities,” she said. “I am incredibly grateful to be part of a program where I am constantly challenged and supported by such extraordinary mentors.”
Another important connection she’s found has been through Generations Connect, a program that bridges the generational gap between college students and older adults in the Lansing area, allowing for mentorship, friendship, and community engagement. She was paired with Charles Dobis, who quickly became one of her biggest supporters at MSU.
Sumaiya Imad (center) co-presents research poster at UURAF, attended by Charles (left) from Generations Connect.
“Moving nearly 9,000 miles from home, I often felt homesick, but Charles became a familiar and constant presence in my life,” Sumaiya said. “He’s taught me everything from how American football works to why MSU is dominating the Big 10 this season -Go Green! Beyond that, he’s been someone I could lean on, whether I was struggling with tough courses or navigating internship applications. He attends my events and award ceremonies- he’s truly my family here.”
She’s also felt very supported by her economics advisor, Jodie Romzek.
“She’s helped me navigate my course load, ensuring that I graduate on time while also taking all the electives I’m passionate about,” she said. “Without her in my corner, I wouldn’t have been able to pursue so many incredible opportunities.”
The advice that Sumaiya has for those considering economics for their major is how the skills you gain such as critical thinking, problem solving and data analysis are applicable in almost any career.
“Keep an open mind, explore different areas within economics, and don’t be afraid to take courses that challenge you. Economics is more than numbers; it’s about understanding the forces that shape our world and finding ways to make it better.”
Her favorite course so far has been EC 301 with Professor Chao Fang.
“He put so much effort into making the lectures fun and interactive, from engaging discussions to Kahoot quizzes with amazing prizes for the winners,” she said. “Although it was an over 150 student class, he made sure each student felt heard. He took the time to answer questions thoughtfully, encouraged discussions that went beyond the textbook, and always made an effort to connect with students individually. His passion for teaching and genuine investment in our learning made the class an incredibly memorable and transformative experience for me. More than that, being in his class helped me grow as a person, shaping how I approach challenges and learning.”
Looking ahead, Sumaiya plans to pursue a master's degree in public policy before going to law school.
“My ultimate goal is to become a human rights lawyer. I want to advocate for vulnerable communities specifically in the human trafficking sphere, shape policies that promote justice, and use my legal expertise to drive systemic change,” she said. “I’m grateful for every experience, mentor, and opportunity that has shaped my journey so far, and I can’t wait to see where this path leads next.”
To learn more about majoring in economics at MSU, visit econ.msu.edu.
By Katie Frey