Penn State Behrend’s class of 2017 is ready to make its mark on the world!  We’re proud of our students and the things they’ve accomplished and learned while here at Behrend. Over the next couple months, we’ll be introducing you to a few of our remarkable seniors who have overcome challenges, pioneered new technology, participated in important research projects, and left an impression at Penn State Behrend.

Today, we’d like you to meet Nursazlin “Lin” Sidek:

Majors: International Business and Project and Supply Chain Management

Home country: Malaysia

Proudest accomplishment at Behrend: I am proud of the work that I’ve done with the Muslim Student Association in working to promote diversity and cultural awareness on campus.

Campus involvement: I was a member of the International Student Organization, president of the Muslim Student Association, and historian for the Multi-Cultural Council.

What you’d be surprised to know about her: People are often surprised to find that I’m not from the Middle East, but from Malaysia, which is in Asia.

Post-graduation priorities: I will be returning home where I hope to find a reliable job so I can take care of my parents and live my life as a truly good Muslim, helping people to understand what Islam is.

Who inspires her: I’m inspired by little things. For example, one time a stranger walking past me on campus suddenly smiled at me for no reason. It felt so good that it inspired me to start doing the same as I passed other students. I wanted them to feel the happiness that I did when someone smiled at me.

Advice for current students: Explore all the clubs that exist on campus and don’t be afraid to join a diverse group or attend a variety of cultural events. Don’t restrain yourself to only the people and things you are familiar with. Go outside your comfort zone and learn about others.

On being a Muslim: My religion is Islam, and it is a religion of peace. People associate Islam and Muslims with terrorism, but that is one small group of people and they are not representative of all Muslims.

After her graduation in May, Lin plans to return to Malaysia and find a job in business management.