Student Spotlight - Baydaa Alshatee

Tell me a little about yourself.

My name is Baydaa Alshatee, I'm 19 years old, I am a journalism major, and I plan to minor in gender and ethnic studies. Currently I am the ASB (Associated Student Body) President. My pronouns are she/her/hers, and I am a student at Everett Community College.

Why did you choose EvCC?

I chose EvCC because it is local and a way I can get connected to the community I grew up in. My dad went here to learn English so as a kid, I came with him to events that were hosted. I knew I wanted to go there someday.

What are your educational and career plans?

I plan to get a 4-year degree and pursue a master's and PhD later on. I am not sure what they'll be in, but I'm sure it will have to do with social justice.

What interested you about journalism?

I have been writing since I was 7 years old. I wrote my first "book" when I turned 8. Journalism is like an umbrella where I can do everything I love - fashion, social justice, and writing!

What has been your favorite hybrid class, and why?

My favorite hybrid class has to be Honors 196. We meet once a week and have a lecture, then gather in discussion boards to discuss what we thought about it. This is a perfect model for me because I am an introvert and have a busy life, so it's not too time consuming to go to school. I can also choose when to do my work instead of being in the classroom everyday.

What advice do you have for students taking hybrid or online classes for the first time?

Hold yourself accountable for your classwork. That could be different for each student, but figure out what works for you. Keep your professor updated if you are struggling and if you have good news as well!

What leadership roles have you held at EvCC?

I was the ASB Vice President of Budget last year, and this year I am the ASB President. They're both very fun positions that helped me grow as a person and leader.

Why did you decide to get involved as a student leader?

During high school, I wanted to get involved, but didn't know how. I didn't see someone like me doing this sort of ASB work. During my first year of college, I decided to push myself to do it, so others who look like me know that it can be done.

Describe the work you do with EvCC's Food Pantry.

I help on Thursday or whenever I'm on campus by packing food/snack bags for students. It's a great study place while waiting for appointments. If I'm not packing bags, I'm usually cleaning it for no reason.

Two people work inside a room filled with stocked food shelves and grocery bags.

Baydaa packs grocery bags in EvCC's Food Pantry.

How did you get involved with EvCC's Youth Re-Engagement (U3) program, which gives students ages 16 to 20 the opportunity to earn a high school diploma and college credit for free? How did U3 help you?

I got involved after a hard time in high school. We moved from Everett to Marysville and I kinda lost aim due to depression and anxiety. I was always a high achieving student and my high school was not providing the support I needed.

One of the teachers there gave me a flyer and said "apply." I did and I got accepted! U3 changed my life...I finally made that dream of being a college student come true. I am the first girl in my family to pursue a college education, and I know all the women in my family are celebrating this victory.

Who has helped you succeed at EvCC?

The advisors, faculty, and my case manager. Jenn (Dean of Student Development Jennifer Rhodes), Richele (former Student LIFE Administrative Assistant Richele Blair), and Rebecca (Youth Re-Engagement Director) have been my support system for the past year. When I have a question, they help me out, and they're always there for me.

Three women stand in an office and smile at the camera.

Baydaa hangs out in Student LIFE with Program Manager Asraa Jaber (left) and former Administrative Assistant Richele Blair.

My professors are the reason I am this confident in my work in school. Each one of them put in extra time to help me succeed. Especially professor Beebe (English Instructor Jennifer Beebe). She's awesome, all of them are, really.

Describe the best experience you've had at EvCC so far.

My best experience had to be graduation (last year) and movie night. Both included everyone in Student LIFE! We all got to know each other and work together. I'm a person who enjoys team settings, so it was a perfect place for me.

What do you plan to do after EvCC?

I plan to continue on my education and become a journalist/social activist. I do plan to publish more books, especially a series I am currently working on.