Name: Nadim Rana
Title: Assistant Dean of Students
Department: Dean of Students Office
Where are you from? Wilmette, IL
What brought you to Student Affairs? I was told about this job by a friend and colleague. It seemed to fit my skill set, and I was excited to work with undergrads and grads, so I applied.
How many years have you worked in Student Affairs at Northwestern? 4
What’s your favorite part about working in Student Affairs? The students – Honestly, their stories are so interesting and unique, and it feels wonderful to help them. Also, I have really enjoyed meeting the staff and faculty here. There are so many nice people on this campus.
What recommendation(s) do you have for someone new to Student Affairs? Get to know as many people as you can. Everyone has a different perspective to offer.
Who or what has had the greatest influence on your career? My parents – my mother and father are two of the hardest working people I know.
What inspires you? I’m inspired by a multitude of things. I was attracted to the field of social work because I enjoy helping people, and because, at the end of the day, you can usually find something you did that day that lets you know you made at least a small difference in the world. Other than that, hard work begets more hard work, and once I start working at any time, I am compelled by a simple inertia to continue until I absolutely must stop. I am also a big goal-setter and list-maker, and that helps as well. Other things that inspire me are my wife and my family. They are all very supportive and have strong work ethics.
What can’t you live without? Opportunities to hear myself think and occasions to process my thoughts with my friends and loved ones.
How do you like to spend your free time? Watching film and television, appreciating and creating art (music, drawing, writing, etc.), running and working out, cooking, trying new foods and restaurants, traveling, walking my dog (Daisy Cutter) and hanging out with my wife, family and friends.
What’s your favorite spot on campus? Currently, it’s that little pathway along Lake Michigan just north of the lakefill and the athletic fields, and just east of the fieldhouse.
Each week a different staff member in the division of Student Affairs will be featured. Staff can opt in to be featured, by filling out the Staff Spotlight Submission form. Student Affairs Marketing staff reach out to staff from across the division asking for participation. The spotlights will be featured in the Student Affairs Snapshot e-newsletter.