In just four years, Nasir Almasri graduated from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) with a Bachelor of Science in Political Science with a minor in Peace and International Studies and a Bachelor of Arts in Historical Studies. At SIUE, Nasir served as President of the Student Body, a distinguished position that demonstrated his dedication to education and his desire to be a leader among his peers.

Immediately upon earning his Bachelor’s degrees and participating in extracurricular activities, Nasir enrolled in graduate school at the University of Chicago where he’s working on his a Master's in International Relations. Nasir intends to pursue his Ph.D. in International Relations. He hopes to establish a career in foreign policy, policy research or teaching at the college level.

During his undergraduate career, Nasir was a member of the Chancellor’s University Policy and Budget Council and honor societies in Political Science and Historical Studies. He served as the President of the Muslim Student Association, President of the Students for Justice in Palestine, and Vice President of Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society.

As a student at Bartlett High School, Nasir served as Student Advisor to the Board during the 2010-11 school year, when he learned about financial and operational agendas of the school district while gaining invaluable leadership experience that would drive his pursuit of a future in higher education.

“I have always highly valued education – not just my own but the education of all students,” Nasir said. “Being acknowledged by the Board and by students gave me a better understanding on how to represent those around me.”

For Nasir, being involved is an important aspect of one’s education. Nasir’s fondest memory at U-46 was walking across the stage at graduation.

“My best piece of advice to current and future U-46 students is to get involved in activities at school,” Nasir said. “Getting involved allows you to create connections and gives you a better reason to get up every morning.”