By Anne van Tatenhove
Could you briefly introduce yourself?
I am Aimah Moiz, a 21-year-old from Karachi, Pakistan. I am a hardcore science major (physics, mathematics, and computer science), but also a journalist and interested in the humanities.
Why are you running for the position of RASA Chair?
At UCR, I really have been forced to evaluate what I want to do in life. And what I wish to do is to make an impact: by using my talents as a writer and speaker, to motivate people to follow their passion. For example, I always knew that I was interested in the creative arts but I would have never thought that I would run for the position of editor-in-chief – but I was motivated by my seniors, such as people who were in board positions. And at the end of the day, the RASA chair is the person who has the motivational factor, who keeps the RASA spirit alive.
My experience in Tabula Rasa has also given me the insight that a chair needs a good balance: not just vocalize their own opinions, but hear everyone and make a decision that is good for everyone in the end. But when for example the student’s interest needs to be defended, it is important to be strong enough to put up a fight and voice your opinions.
What changes do you have in mind for RASA?
I would like to make students more aware of what RASA does, and thereby ‘bridge the gap’. I think the proposal of the RASA ‘hours’ was a really good one – actually my first show as a UCRadio secretary covered those in a humorous style. I feel that podcasts like those could give students a better idea of what goes on in RASA and its societies.
Is there anything else you would like to do to encourage students to participate more?
I would like there to be a personal factor – I like being approachable and encouraging people to become involved, and would like to lead by example in that aspect. While I am only one person, I will be in a board of six people, and there are many society boards…
What would be a fun new event you would love to introduce in IntRoweek?
Oh – that is an interesting question… It would be a mixture of an outdoor activity and a social event which forces you to go up and talk to people, to get to know them better. It might actually involve something with sports, or at least running around and dancing.
WRITER’S NOTE: Even though Aimah currently holds the position of Editor-in-Chief of Tabula Rasa, she was no more or less involved in the production of this article (or any of the election interviews) as any other interviewee.
Anne van Tatenhove, Class of 2016, is an Economics and Sociology major from Berkel en Rodenrijs, the Netherlands
