Meet Your Excos—Vice President
An Exclusive Interview With Ummulkhair AbdulRasheed
As we conclude the first half of the session, it’s only right for us to get to know our excos personally and see what they’ve been up to so far and their plans for the rest of the session. In this article, we had a sit down with Ummulkhair ‘Yemi’ AbdulRasheed, our faculty’s Vice President.
This interview has been shortened and edited for clarity
Tell us a little bit about yourself.
My name is Ummulkhair AbdulRasheed popularly known as Yemi. I am the third child of 4 children. I love pink and see myself as an empathetic person. I am a Muslim and UX designer. My favourite food is yam and garden egg sauce. I am a fashion enthusiast and mental health advocate as well. I create content sometimes too.
What inspired you to pursue your role as a ULES Executive?
I just wanted to make an impact in the lives of students and I felt being a VP would give me that opportunity. I also wanted to be close to students and see life from their point of view.
Who would you name as your role models or influencers?
My role model in terms of academics is my sister. Her name is Zainab. I am not a bookworm but if I ever come to this life again, being as intelligent as her would be nice. In terms of fashion and lifestyle, I am in love with Temi Otedola and Nonye of thisthingcalledfashion. In terms of love life; I love Temi and Mr. Eazi’s love life as well.
What are some experiences or milestones that have shaped your journey or that you're most proud of?
When I got my first job. It helped me to realize I could achieve anything as long as I believed in myself. When I also won the elections, the love was overwhelming and I am so grateful that students could see something amazing in me.
How do you balance school, your exco duties and your personal life?
I don’t even think you can ever balance it but you can manage them. Prioritize important tasks and get them done. I also believe in the quote that says; ‘You always have to show up regardless of how you feel. Success doesn’t care about your feelings, just your consistency.’
Can you share any favorite books, podcasts or article that has had a significant impact on you?
I love non-fiction a lot but my all time favourite books would be one Islamic romance novel and Yes, You Are Good Enough by Trish Taylor. My favourite podcasts are How far pod by Temi Otedola and Mr. Eazi, and The Digital Sisterhood.
What do you hope to accomplish this academic session?
I hope to attain academic excellence, graduate well, inshallah, and have fun while making lots of money.
We all know how demanding engineering can be, has there been any moment where things were tough academically and how did you navigate that?
Year 2; that year I wan die. My worst year so far. I didn’t solve anything but I knew I had to apply extra pressure moving forward.
What was your Welcome to the Faculty of Engineering moment?
Everyday is a welcome to engineering moment o.
What plans do you have for engineering students during your tenure?
Anything relating to ARB (Academic and Research Board), just know it’s me. On a more serious note, just help as much as I can.
Over the years the office of the Vice-President has not been visible, how do you intend to make this office different and effective?
If you ask me I would say I already made it visible since I won. I am in charge of ARB and I intend to improve the academic welfare of students with the help of my team. Also make the organization as effective and as helpful as ever.