After leaving her family in Oman for the first time, Muzna Al Zadjali came to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln unsure what to expect. As she grew more involved in her international business major and challenged herself to engage with others in the College of Business community, she found support and began to feel at home.

At Nebraska, Al Zadjali minored in Arabic studies and joined the international Toastmasters Club to further develop her public speaking skills. Engaging as a member of the International Business Club and Business International Student Association also allowed her to expand her global mindset while building connections with other students. Finally, completing the Employment Readiness Certificate in the College of Business prepared her to search for work in the United States.

“Giving speeches helped me to build my personality and become stronger,” she said. “It helped me become more confident so I could complete a great internship doing market research for a company in Spain. These experiences gave me the chance to think more globally.”

Al Zadjali crosses the commencement stage Saturday at Pinnacle Bank Arena to receive her bachelor’s degree. Before doing so, however, she wanted to thank those who shared opportunities and guidance her at College of Business.

“I would like to thank my advisor Megan Christensen (assistant director of Business Advising and Student Engagement) for being there whenever I needed and Mikki Sandin (international business and inclusion coordinator) for supporting me and being a mother to all of us. Finally, I would like to thank my Finance 363 professor Paul Dion (assistant professor of practice in finance) for believing in my abilities and supporting me in applying for graduate school,” Al Zadjali said.

Sandin shared how Al Zadjali possesses persistence and curiosity, which will lead her to success after college.

"We worked together to find a virtual study abroad opportunity and remote internship to finish her international business major requirements when travel abroad was suspended in 2020. Muzna is persistent in reaching her goals and finding positive outcomes despite the challenges of the past 18 months,” Sandin said.

Looking to the future, Al Zadjali looks forward to starting her next chapter in a full-time career as she applies for graduate schools.

“The best thing about being a Husker is that I get to be part of a thriving and supportive community. I am glad that Nebraska has become my second home, where I have many beautiful memories and friends who have become a family to me. Graduating from here is an honor,” she said.