Interview with the Manager of the Office of Communications

Ruqayah Saleem is the Manager of the Office of Communications at the American University of Kurdistan (AUK). She has been on the job since early 2023. During her tenure, the Office of Communications has continued its efforts to make the “AUK community” feel all the more like one. The Office of Communications has been responsible for dozens of interviews since she started at AUK, and now the microscope and the microphone are on her. Here is what Ruqayah Saleem had to say:

Q: You started your employment at AUK in February of 2023. What were your initial impressions of the University, and what is your perspective now that you’ve been here for many months?

A: Upon my arrival, I was immediately struck by the peaceful feel of the university campus, the academic atmosphere, and the distinctive American-style work environment. The strong sense of dedication to education and the emphasis on excellence left a lasting impression on me. As I reflect on my early months at AUK, my initial impressions have only been reinforced. The University has consistently provided me with the resources necessary to unleash my creativity and perform at my best. The unwavering support from my colleagues and management has been exemplary, fostering a collaborative and empowering work culture. Additionally, witnessing the commitment to women’s empowerment at AUK and encountering numerous female thought leaders have been truly inspiring. Overall, my time at AUK has exceeded my expectations, and I am filled with optimism for the future.

Q: You have lived in various cities throughout Iraq. As AUK tries to recruit students from across the nation, what do you consider to be the challenges and opportunities in convincing students to attend AUK?

A: Having lived in different cities throughout Kurdistan, I have come to appreciate the diverse cultural landscapes that exist within our nation. This firsthand experience has given me a unique advantage in understanding the specific challenges and opportunities in recruiting students from various regions to join AUK. Each city possesses its distinct culture, which shapes the aspirations and expectations of its students. Having studied in both Sulaymaniyah and Erbil, I hold a comprehensive understanding of the unique cultural shades and societal dynamics dominant in each city. From my observations, a common theme among students is their eagerness to pursue modern development opportunities. AUK’s offering of an American-style education, with its emphasis on inclusivity and exposure to diverse educational approaches, aligns with this desire. Our culturally diverse faculty and staff further position AUK as an attractive choice for students seeking holistic educational experiences.

Q: It might be hard to choose just one person, but could you please provide details about an individual at AUK who has been particularly supportive in helping you acclimate to the University?

A: At AUK, I have been fortunate to encounter numerous individuals who have consistently offered their support and guidance. It is challenging to select just one person because the overall atmosphere at AUK has been marked by a genuine and unwavering support towards me. From my very first day, I have experienced a collective approach to teamwork and a culture that values collaboration and mutual growth. The inclusive nature of the University ensures that everyone contributes to an environment conducive to personal development. Therefore, I am grateful to the entire AUK community for their continuous support and encouragement.

Q: I noticed a Swedish dictionary in your office, and you mentioned that you used to live in Sweden. Could you share some insights about the time you spent there?

A: Learning new languages has always been a personal passion of mine, and during my time in Sweden I had the opportunity to fully engage with the Swedish language. It was an enriching experience, as I discovered that Swedish shares many similarities with English. Understanding Swedish proved to be essential during my stay in Sweden, as it allowed me to dig deeper into the culture and establish meaningful relationships. This experience broadened my horizons and deepened my appreciation for linguistic diversity. Moreover, my time in Sweden provided me with a firsthand understanding of the country’s rich history, traditions, and societal values. It was a transformative period that enabled me to embrace new perspectives and develop a global mindset, which has greatly influenced my approach to communication and cultural sensitivity in my role at AUK.

Q: So often in interviews and profiles, people talk about their formal education. Instead, could you talk about a hobby of yours or a personal incident and how it has contributed to your development?

A: Certainly. One of my cherished hobbies is hiking, which has had a profound impact on my growth, both personally and professionally. I have had the opportunity to explore the breathtaking landscapes and natural wonders of our beautiful Kurdistan areas, including Amedi, Halgurd, Zrigvan, Barzan, and many other stunning locales. Hiking in these areas has not only connected me with the beauty of Kurdistan’s nature, but also taught me valuable lessons about perseverance, adaptability, and appreciating the wonders of the world around us. Additionally, another hobby of mine that has contributed significantly to my growth is yoga. Through yoga, I have developed a deep appreciation for balance, self-care, and maintaining a positive mindset, all of which have greatly influenced my personal and professional development.

Q: Who is your role model?

A: Every individual who strives to improve the lives of others is my role model.

One person who particularly stands out to me is Maya Angelou. Her firm determination and commitment to uplifting humanity serve as an endless source of inspiration. Maya Angelou once said, “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” This quote resonates with me deeply, as it reminds me of the transformative power of empathy, kindness, and making a positive impact on others.

Q: Can you provide us with a preview of what to expect from the AUK Office of Communications in the near future under your management?

A: The AUK Office of Communications is positioned to make substantial contributions to the University’s growth. As we approach our 10th anniversary, symbolizing a decade of transformative education, we have graduated five remarkable classes of students who have the potential to become future global leaders. The Office of Communications is planning innovative initiatives that will amplify AUK’s brand and highlight our “Path to Excellence.” Stay tuned for exciting developments that will showcase our University’s achievements and underscore our dedication to a dynamic and inclusive educational environment.