Norah will absolutely be at the next in-person boat cruise, just FYI.

Name, School, Major, Hometown: Norah Hassan, Barnard, Political Science, Milton, MA

Claim to fame: President for the Class of 2021 three years in a row, running to Diana for SGA meetings, late to all my events as an NSOP OL, late to all my 8:40s, hanging out in the Student life office 24/7, being way too loud on Milstein 1. Oh and creator of the Muslim Prayer Space in Lefrak (rip).

Where are you going? I’m wondering that too :) 

What are 3 things you learned at Columbia and would like to share with the Class of 2025?

1. Try something new and don’t underestimate yourself! I never participated in Student Gov or many things that I did in college, and they were the most worthwhile experiences. 

2. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. It can be very daunting at times, but people here are in your corner. Don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself and say what you need. Please ask for extensions!!!! And get enough sleep!! 

3. Spend time with your friends and enjoy every second of it. Take it from someone who had their senior year taken from them! 

“Back in my day…” Barnard’s campus was 90% scaffolding, Lefrak was our library, Diana had late night, Barnard admin shut down democratic referendums. 

Favorite Columbia controversy? CC people referring to CC as “the college” …. yikes.

What was your favorite class at Columbia? Any class I had with Professor Vandenburg, she is a genius. Also Rethinking Middle East Politics!! Highly recommend. 

Would you rather give up oral sex or cheese? Please, it’s Ramadan.

Whom would you like to thank? Too many people to ever possibly list. My friends, family, professors who all supported me. All of the Barnard Student Life team. The Peet’s and Liz’s place staff for providing me with the necessary caramel macchiatos (or three) that I need to get through the day. My dog, Rick. My SGA pals from 2018-2019, we really went through it together. 

One thing to do before graduating: Have a breakdown on Low. It will build your character. 

Any regrets? Being robbed of our junior and senior boat cruise. Definitely gonna crash the next one that happens, see you then Class of 2025! 

Image via Norah