Lamisa Tanzim Ruhin

Lamisa Tanzim Ruhin is a nutrition and dietetics graduate student from Bangladesh

Hometown: Bangladesh

High School: Agrani School and College

Year: Expected graduation: 2025

What did you want to be when you were growing up? Are you pursuing that as a major, or have you taken another path?
When I was younger, I aspired to become a doctor. However, a conversation with my uncle about the importance of being a nutritionist or food service manager shifted my perspective. His insights encouraged me to explore career opportunities in these fields, leading me to pursue higher education. I have since completed bachelor’s and master’s degrees in food and nutrition and am currently working on my second M.S. in nutrition and dietetics. This path has allowed me to align my interests in health and nutrition while still contributing to the well-being of others.

What is your major (and/or minor) and why did you decide on this course of study?
My major is nutrition and dietetics. I chose this course of study because I am passionate about health and wellness, and I believe in the power of nutrition to improve people's lives. The field of nutrition offers a unique opportunity to help individuals lead healthier lives through informed food choices and lifestyle changes. Additionally, with the growing awareness of the importance of proper nutrition, I saw it as a field with significant potential for career growth and meaningful impact.

How did you get your internship, and where was it?
I have been interning in the sports nutrition department at the NIU Nutrition Center since September 2024, where I modify recipes to meet athletes' dietary needs. My role involves assessing each athlete group's unique nutritional requirements and providing nutritional counseling on healthy eating practices. Also, I did my first internship on clinical nutrition at BIRDEM Hospital in Bangladesh. I got this opportunity through the University of Dhaka, as my good cumulative GPA in my undergraduate studies helped me stand out and secure the position. My faculty and professors were instrumental in helping me secure the internship. They not only facilitated the opportunity but also covered all the associated costs, and I was paid for my work during this period.

How did your internship help prepare you for your career?
The internship at BIRDEM Hospital was crucial in preparing for my career. It provided me with hands-on experience in a real setting, allowing me to apply theoretical knowledge from my studies to practical situations. Working directly with patients and health care professionals enhanced my skills in nutrition assessment and patient care, which are essential for my future career. Additionally, the internship helped me build a professional network and gain insights into the field, which has been invaluable for shaping my career path and goals.

What has been something you have found pleasantly surprising about your experience at NIU?
One of the pleasantly surprising aspects of my experience at NIU has been the level of support and engagement from the faculty and staff. Their dedication to helping students succeed, whether through academic advising, research opportunities or career guidance, has exceeded my expectations. Additionally, the sense of community and collaboration among students has created a positive and enriching learning environment I hadn't anticipated. Being an international student the support, help and information I got from NIU was beyond my imagination. The dedication of the faculty and staff has significantly enhanced my experience and contributed to my overall success.

How have you connected with other students to study for classes, meet new people or form new friendships?
To connect with other students for class, meet new people and form new friendships, I've engaged in several activities. I participated in study groups and class discussions, which allowed me to collaborate with peers and build connections. Joining student organizations and attending campus events also provided opportunities to meet others with similar interests. Additionally, networking at university-hosted events and social gatherings helped me expand my circle and develop new friendships.

Are you involved in any student organizations, mentoring programs or extra-curricular activities? If so, which ones? How have they added to your experience as a Huskie?
Not yet. But I want to connect with people who are doing research on health studies and be a part of their research.

What NIU offices, departments or resources have helped you feel safe, supported and successful? And how?
Several departments and resources at NIU have been instrumental in making me feel safe, supported and successful. International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) has provided essential guidance and assistance tailored to my needs as an international student, helping with visa issues and supporting my adaptation to a new environment. Sarah and Dieter have been particularly helpful; their dedication and support have made a significant impact, and it would be an injustice not to acknowledge their contributions. Additionally, the College of Health and Human Sciences academic advising office has helped me navigate my coursework and effectively plan my academic path. Career Services has also offered valuable resources for internships, job placements and career planning. Collectively, these departments have fostered a positive and supportive experience during my time at NIU.

Who has been one of your favorite instructors/professors and why? What course did they teach?
I can't pick just one or two favorites because I have four professors who have made a significant impact on my academic experience. Dr. Julie Patterson is my major adviser and has been incredibly supportive and understanding. Dr. Sheila Barrett was my professor for research methodology in my first semester and is now my thesis adviser. She’s always there to help, listen, provide solutions and offer encouragement. Dr. Rana Jaber was my professor for biostatistics, and she never judged me for my flaws and shortcomings. Despite her busy schedule, she’s always been available to listen and support me. Last but not least, Dr. Henna Muzaffar, my interim chair who taught two of my courses, has been incredibly understanding and helpful. She’s the kind of professor who truly supports her students.

How have you benefited by attending class regularly?
Attending classes regularly has been highly beneficial for several reasons. Consistent attendance has allowed me to understand the material, participate actively in discussions and engage directly with the instructor. This regular engagement has helped me better understand complex concepts, retain information more effectively and stay on track with assignments and deadlines. Additionally, attending classes consistently has facilitated stronger connections with professors and peers, which enhances collaborative learning and academic support. Overall, regular attendance has been crucial for maintaining academic performance and maximizing my learning experience.

Where is your favorite spot on campus or in the community? Why are you drawn to it?
My favorite spot on campus is the Holmes Student Center. I'm drawn to it because it’s a central hub for socializing, studying and relaxing. The variety of amenities and comfortable spaces make it an ideal place to unwind, meet friends or get some work done in a vibrant atmosphere.

What advice would you give to a student who is researching colleges to apply to?
When researching colleges to apply to, I would advise international students to focus on several key factors. Start by evaluating your academic and career goals to identify colleges with strong programs in your area of interest. Explore the campus environment through virtual tours or visits and consider the cultural fit. Additionally, check for essential support services, such as academic advising and international student offices, to ensure you'll have the assistance you need. Research extracurricular opportunities and campus organizations that align with your interests. Comparing the cost of attendance and available financial aid options is crucial for managing your financial commitment. Lastly, reading reviews from current students and alumni can provide valuable insights, helping you make an informed decision. Choose a college where you believe you will thrive both academically and personally.

Why is a college education important to you?
To me, a college education is important because it offers a transformative experience for both personal and professional development. It serves as the foundation for acquiring specialized knowledge and practical skills essential for building a successful career in my chosen field. Beyond academics, college cultivates critical thinking, problem-solving and communication skills that are crucial for navigating complex challenges in life and work. Additionally, it offers opportunities for networking, developing diverse relationships and exploring different perspectives, which contribute to personal growth. This holistic development enriches my overall life experience and prepares me for long-term success.

What strategies do you use to manage your time between the responsibilities of school, work, friends and family?
To manage my time effectively between school, work, friends and family, I prioritize tasks based on deadlines and their level of importance, focusing on the most pressing ones first. I use a detailed schedule or digital calendar to allocate time slots for each activity, helping me maintain a structured approach. I set clear boundaries between school, work and personal time to prevent overlap and ensure I remain focused on each responsibility. Additionally, I prioritize self-care and motivation to maintain both my physical and mental health, keeping me energized and balanced as I manage all aspects of my life.

How do you stay informed about events and services that are available on campus?
I always stay informed about events and services available on campus by regularly checking my weekly email from NIU, which is sent to my institutional account. I make sure to carefully review the content, and if there are events or reminders that I plan to attend or follow up on, I mark those emails as important. This system helps me stay organized and ensures that I don't miss out on any campus activities or opportunities.

What do you do to relax or recharge?
To relax or recharge, I enjoy immersing myself in Bangla novels and fiction, which allows me to unwind and transport myself into different stories and cultural settings. Watching Doraemon cartoons also provides a lighthearted and fun escape from daily stress. In addition, nothing beats the soothing combination of a hot shower and a cup of coffee to refresh my mind and rejuvenate my energy. These simple pleasures help me maintain balance and stay recharged amidst my busy schedule.

Please tell us about your job and hobbies.
Currently, I balance several responsibilities. I am a teaching assistant for the School of Health Studies, where I support students in their coursework, grade them and help them with their assignments. I also work as a barista at Starbucks, which provides a nice break from my academic work. Despite these commitments, I manage to stay fully engaged in my studies as a full-time graduate student. In my free time, I enjoy reading books, which helps me unwind and expand my knowledge in various areas. Additionally, I love to cook occasionally, experimenting with different recipes and enjoying the creative process involved in preparing meals.