By Andrew Fogle
YPSILANTI — Eastern Michigan University international student Maitham Khanafer knows firsthand what it’s like to feel isolated in a community that does not share his native language, culture, or traditions. Born and raised in Kuwait, Khanafer found other EMU students with similar backgrounds who collectively want to heighten awareness of Arab culture. He co-founded Eastern’s first Arab Society dedicated to fulfilling that goal.
“As an international student, I came here not only for education but also for an experience,” said Khanafer. “I want to show incoming students from the Middle East that they have an opportunity at EMU to shape a wonderful experience by starting initiatives, making changes, being involved, excelling in the classroom, and participating in wonderful opportunities that will provide them with self-growth and fulfillment.”
Khanafer co-founded The Arab Society with EMU alumni Ahmad Zalt in September 2022 and currently serves as president. Within a year, the organization gained over a thousand followers on social media and hosted many events.
“I am proud that we have cemented our organization as an active and thriving community,” said Khanafer. “In less than a year, we have held several events that averaged 50-100 students from all backgrounds. We fostered an environment that educated others about our culture and provided a sense of belonging for existing and incoming Arab students.”
Khanafer migrated to the U.S. after high school and attended Cuyahoga Community College in Cleveland, Ohio. He later transferred to Henry Ford College in Dearborn, Michigan, to be closer to a Middle Eastern population.
After discovering his passion for dietetics, Khanafer transferred to EMU due to the program’s faculty and the opportunity to do clinical fieldwork through the University. Khanafer was happy to discover a growing Arab community at EMU.
“EMU checked all my boxes,” said Khanafer. “I have grown both academically and professionally. After meeting with Sandy Pernecky, director of the dietetics program, I saw that the program allowed me to participate in clinical fieldwork to prepare me to become a dietitian. I also noticed that EMU is a hub for international students, and I knew I could fit in.”
Khanafer initially struggled to assimilate into EMU’s culture. He found a job as a campus tour guide which expanded his social bubble and helped him connect with students of various cultures.
“Throughout my time as a tour guide, I was able to get out of my bubble, become more confident in my abilities, and interact with individuals from all sorts of backgrounds,” said Khanafer.
He strives to open doors for other international students interested in attending EMU. Through the help of Dr. Connie Ruhl-Smith, director of development for International Relations at Eastern, and other students, Khanafer established a scholarship to recruit students of Middle Eastern descent to become ambassadors for their region.
Following graduation, Khanafer hopes to work as a clinical dietitian for critically ill patients. Khanafer’s grandfather passed away due to complications from diabetes and kidney disease, and he aspires to help those experiencing similar conditions through his dietician work. One day, Khanafer would like to explore the world of sports nutrition. He grew up playing and watching sports, so he dreams of becoming a part of an athlete’s success.
Khanafer fervidly hopes his efforts at EMU will increase the enrollment of Arab students and create a welcoming and supportive home for students of all backgrounds.
“I want to show international students that their creative ideas can become a reality,” said Khanafer. “I want them to know that exploring their ambitions at EMU will not only help them adapt to the U.S. lifestyle but will also help them thrive and grow.”
About Eastern Michigan University
Founded in 1849, Eastern is the second oldest public university in Michigan. It currently serves more than 14,000 students pursuing undergraduate, graduate, specialist, doctoral and certificate degrees in the arts, sciences and professions. In all, more than 300 majors, minors and concentrations are delivered through the University’s Colleges of Arts and Sciences; Business; Education; Engineering and Technology; Health and Human Services; and its graduate school. National publications regularly recognize EMU for its excellence, diversity, and commitment to applied education. Visit the University’s rankings and points of pride websites to learn more. For more information about Eastern Michigan University, visit the University’s website. To stay up to date on University news, activities and announcements, visit EMU Today.
