Meet Toqa Hassan, a graduate student orientation (GSO) teaching fellow and doctoral student in the Communication and Information program. Read on to learn more about her favorite places in Kent, what she enjoys doing in her free time and what advice she has for incoming graduate students.
Where is your hometown?
I am from Akron, Ohio.
Why did you choose Kent State University?
The interdisciplinary communication degree was very attractive compared to the other communication degrees. My bachelor's degree was in IT and so knowing that I could make use of all my background experiences while I pursue the doctoral degree made Kent a top choice!
What do you like most about living in/near Kent? Do you have a favorite local spot or activity?
Everything is close by and within walking distance. My favorite area is Downtown.
What is your favorite KSU memory?
My first and fondest memory of KSU is watching the fireworks on the river at a summer festival with my best friends. The second favorite memory was when I finally figured out the PARTA Bus routes, I would take a study break and ride one of routes just to explore Kent and the campus.
What are some differences you've noticed in being a graduate student (expectations, pressures, visibility, etc.) than those of an undergraduate student?
The biggest difference I can see as a graduate student is the level of connectedness and closeness I feel to my professors. I do not feel pressured to ask them for advice or get their perspectives as I would be if I was an undergraduate student.
What advice do you have for incoming graduate students?
Work hard but also don't forget to have fun with your colleagues and classmates. Most importantly, be open to changes and new ideas in relation to your research. You never know what opportunities will come with new perspectives!
Fun Fact About Me:
One of my favorite hobbies is photography. When I'm on campus, I am especially interested in capturing the architectural designs of the buildings as well as taking pictures of the many, many sculptures we have on across campus.