Rinad Ghaith has always jumped at any opportunity to get involved. A political science senior at AUC, she's active on campus, has attended academic conferences abroad and makes sure to find time to give back to the community -- always asking herself: How can I create an impact?
"My mother often says: 'Rinad never knows how to have free time!' And it is true," Ghaith states, "I have loved reading and public speaking back in high school, so studying political science sounded like a natural next step."
Ghaith originally planned to stick with political science, but after a few semesters, she decided to specialize in international law and pick up minors in economics and sociology. "Understanding how economies work and how our institutions affect people's lives really opened my eyes. It has made me think more critically -- and with more empathy," she says.
Beyond the Books
Outside the classroom, Ghaith threw herself into student life at AUC. She joined the Student Ambassadors Program, where undergraduates share their love for the University by leading tours and introducing visitors to the campus. The program helped her meet a wide variety of people, from government officials to high schoolers coming to AUC for the first time.
Ghaith also took on a leadership role with Volunteers in Action (VIA), one of AUC's largest community service student organizations. As VIA president, Ghaith helps organize projects that support orphans and families in need. "We run weekly sessions with orphans," she explains. "It's amazing to see how much the kids look forward to it. Just putting a smile on their faces makes it worth it."
Going Global
In 2024, Ghaith was nominated by the Ministry of Youth and Sports to represent Egypt at Oman's first Model United Nations conference for international delegates. The opportunity did not come easily; Ghaith had to go through a rigorous process that included a competitive assessment and training. In the end, she was one of two students in Egypt selected to attend the conference. "I was so honored and humbled by the whole selection process, and couldn't wait to be part of this exciting experience," she states.
At the conference, Ghaith represented Egypt on the Human Rights Council and took part in preparatory sessions conducted by the United Nations Institute for Training and Research. "It was a real diplomatic setting, even though it was a simulation," she recalls. "It was great to meet students from all over the Middle East, and I left with a good sense of how international policymaking works."
Looking ahead, Ghaith hopes to pursue a career in either diplomacy or community development. One thing is certain -- wherever Ghaith leads, change will always follow. "Whatever the path God chooses for me, I pray that it is one of helping my community and one that is rewarding both mentally and spiritually," she states.
-By Honey ElMoghazi