Senior Khushbakht Aleem plays key roles as president and vice president of the Muslim Student Association (MSA) and Food Science Club (FSC) respectively
Staff Writer
Whether leading club meetings, planning events, or mediating conflicts between her siblings, Khushbakht Aleem (12) seems to always be the person to go to, and it quickly became clear why.
When conducting interviews about Aleem, everyone mentioned their unique experiences, but one common theme stood out: Aleem’s ability to get things done while consistently bringing a calm, kind, and welcoming presence to every space she is in.
Initially, Aleem did not expect to become a leader on campus. “I joined the [Muslim Student Association (MSA)] in my freshman year, but I didn’t think I would hold a leadership position yet because it was so new to me,” she said. However, during her sophomore and junior years, Aleem began stepping into more prominent roles within the club, serving as a publicist and treasurer. She said, “I think, as time went on, I noticed that I could also lead meetings and events the way other people do.”
Aleem’s consistent involvement and strong work ethic did not go unnoticed. When the previous MSA resident had to unexpectedly step down, Aleem was offered the role. “I didn’t apply for the position at first,” she said, “but the previous president knew I contributed to the club a lot. They saw me as responsible and someone who gets all her tasks done on time, so they asked if I wanted to be president.”
President Hentashi Vakharia (12) (right) and vice president Aleem (left) of the Food Science Club excitedly pose for a photo as they wrap up their caramel-making event. “We all had so much fun at this event, and I am so happy that it went well—especially since it was our first cooking event,” said Aleem (Photo Credit: Khushbakht Aleem (12)).
While Aleem embraced the role of president of MSA, it did come with its own set of challenges. “This was my first time being in a leadership position, so it was basically a new learning experience. I had to learn everything from when [club] binders were due to how to keep the club up to date, and more,” said Aleem.
She also spoke about other difficulties she had in leading a team. “I definitely had to face some challenges where some people would not stay on task, so I would have to keep reminding them. But that’s what I did to solve that problem: I stayed consistent with reminding them rather than giving up and saying, ‘I’ll just do the work for you.’”
As president of MSA, Aleem has learned how to manage a team and developed her own leadership style. When asked about it, she said, “I would describe my leadership style as very empathetic. I can understand when somebody needs more help in whatever task I assign them. I am good at communicating.”
Raveeha Rabbani (12), one of MSA’s activities coordinators, highlighted Aleem’s growth from freshman year. She said, “ I remember [Aleem] was very shy in freshman year, and now she is more confident and really good with communication. I think that is a great improvement.” Rabbani continued to describe Aleem’s presence in MSA. “I think she’s really accommodating of everyone’s wants and needs and takes into account other people’s perspectives. For example, she always asks for everyone’s input in meetings and is open to new ideas about planning and hosting events.”
Hiba Hashmi (12), another MSA member, said, “Without [Aleem], I feel like we wouldn’t have had the events that actually bring people together. People wouldn’t have gotten things done, I wouldn’t have gotten to know as many people in MSA, and it would have been a loss of community. [Aleem] actually makes things happen and doesn’t give up, which I admire about her.”
The president of the Food Science Club (FSC), Hentashi Vakharia (12), also works closely with Aleem and described Aleem’s impact on FSC as “life-saving.” Having complementary leadership styles—Vakharia’s directness being balanced by Aleem’s kindness and patience—has helped the club thrive. “It’s so nice to have someone that’s so reliable, like I could just text [Aleem], ‘Can you please do this for me?’ and she’s like, ‘Wait, I got it.’ She knows exactly what I’m talking about, and she can get everything done,” said Vakharia.
Aleem’s communication and problem-solving skills also extend far beyond her club activities. As the oldest of three siblings, leadership has always been part of her life. Her younger sister, Aiman Aleem (10) said, “I actually see her as my second mom. She takes care of us when my brother and I are fighting. She cooks for us without us asking and doesn’t ask for a thank you. She is a really big role model in my life right now.”
As Aleem prepares to graduate and pursue nursing in college, she carries with her the leadership experiences that have taught her lessons regarding adaptability, trust, and building meaningful relationships. Looking ahead, she hopes to bring these values into healthcare, where supporting others is at the heart of the profession. Aleem said, “After graduating, I hope people remember me as a hard worker, and overall, a very kind person.”
Aleem, President of the Muslim Student Association prepares a plate of food to give to other club members for their Eid al-Fitr celebration event during lunch. “Hosting this event was very heartwarming, especially when I saw everyone socializing with each other and enjoying all of the food,” said Aleem (Photo Credit: Sanika Yadav (12)).
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