Muslim Student Association at Arkansas State University
Dr. Hashim Ali is a Professor of Chemistry at Arkansas State University in Jonesboro Arkansas. He received his PhD degree (at University of Iowa) in chemistry in 2005 and after four years as a postgraduate scholar, began his appointment at ASU in 2009 as an assistant professor. He became the faculty advisor to the Muslim student association (MSA) at ASU in 2011. The M.S.A. participates in cultural week every year as well as Islam Awareness week and is dedicated to educating both Muslims and people of other faiths about the religion of Islam. As Faculty advisor, Dr. Ali advises the MSA in matters related to mission of the group. He prefers a “hands-off” approach to his advising, as the MSA is a student driven organization.
Dr. Ali believes Jonesboro is a great town for incoming international students. He recommends that new students get out and meet as many diverse people as possible, and have rational discussions about faith, religion, and culture. Dr. Ali told me about a time when he was in Iowa City, Iowa, where a campus Christian group had local families host international students (Dr. Ali is from Kenya) for thanksgiving dinner. He spent the holiday with one family and said it was a great learning experience when he discussed Christianity and Islam with his host family. Dr. Ali encourages new students to come into Jonesboro and the United States with an open mind, and not to let preconceived notions or stereotypes guide their thoughts because the US is a large and diverse country. He said above all, remember why you’re in college. Come to study and get a degree and enjoy your stay.
Dr. Ali believes Jonesboro is a great town for incoming international students. He recommends that new students get out and meet as many diverse people as possible, and have rational discussions about faith, religion, and culture. Dr. Ali told me about a time when he was in Iowa City, Iowa, where a campus Christian group had local families host international students (Dr. Ali is from Kenya) for thanksgiving dinner. He spent the holiday with one family and said it was a great learning experience when he discussed Christianity and Islam with his host family. Dr. Ali encourages new students to come into Jonesboro and the United States with an open mind, and not to let preconceived notions or stereotypes guide their thoughts because the US is a large and diverse country. He said above all, remember why you’re in college. Come to study and get a degree and enjoy your stay.