Always eager to be involved, Nicolas Khonaysser stays busy as a double major working toward a bachelor’s degree in political science and communications from the The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences at Arizona State University.
As a current junior, he possesses the experience and dedication that allow him to get the most out of his college experience.
“Being an immigrant who came to this country at 8 years old, with parents from two different countries, gave me an admiration for international affairs and politics,” Khonaysser said.
“I want my future endeavors to be focused around international affairs and politics, and a bachelor’s degree in political science was a great place to start.”
ASU was the right fit for Khonaysser because of the opportunities available to students. He acknowledged that the School of Politics and Global Studies has opened more doors than he could have imagined.
Khonaysser expresses his admiration for the ASU faculty and how they’ve helped him gain insight and create connections that he can use long into his professional career.
One of many individuals who have inspired Khonaysser is Cassandra Aska, deputy vice president and dean of students at the Tempe campus. He began working with Aska more closely once appointed president of the Interfraternity Council.
“I watched the way she addressed students and leaders at a town hall meeting and I was in awe of her public speaking skills and responses,” Khonaysser said.
When Khonaysser spoke with Aska, he discovered they share the same French mother language, sparking an immediate connection.
“We had much in common, and it made me quite emotional to connect with a faculty member so closely,” Khonaysser said. “Her feedback and insight on how to move forward with my goals on the Tempe campus have been key in problem-solving and solutions.”
As president of the Interfraternity Council, Khonaysser oversees and ensures the safety of all fraternity chapters at ASU while working with the university to find ways that Greek life can continue to impact students and the community in a positive way.
“The feedback I have been able to receive as president from deans, mayors, police, faculty and teachers has been key in making me the student I am. The skills and leadership traits that I have taken from the leaders I communicate with every day help me in every endeavor I take on, small to large,” Khonaysser said.
