Nafisa Omar
As part of this year’s incoming cohort, Nafisa Omar brings a strong commitment to exploring the intersections of language, identity, culture, and power particularly in Swahili-speaking communities. Alongside her doctoral studies, she serves as a teaching assistant in the English Department, teaching Intro to College Composition.
From the outset, Nafisa describes her experience in the SLA program as both welcoming and deeply connected. What stood out to her early on was not only the intellectual environment, but also the sense of community. She recalls how peers, faculty, and staff created a space where support and encouragement felt natural, making the transition into graduate school smoother and less overwhelming. For Nafisa, the program quickly became more than an academic setting, it became a community.
Outside the classroom, Madison has played an important role in shaping her experience. She describes the city as peaceful, welcoming, and distinctly student-friendly. Whether spending time by the lakes, exploring parks, or discovering new places with friends, Nafisa values the balance Madison offers. These experiences, she notes, have contributed to both her academic growth and personal well-being.
Like many first-year doctoral students, Nafisa is navigating the challenge of balancing coursework, teaching, research, and personal life. She approaches this by setting realistic daily goals and prioritizing what matters most. Equally important, she emphasizes the value of taking breaks, spending time with friends, and engaging in small, enjoyable activities that help her maintain a sense of balance.
Moments of connection have been central to her experience in the program. Through conversations with peers, support from faculty, and participation in program events, Nafisa has found a strong sense of belonging. She highlights the collaborative spirit within the SLA community, where students are encouraged to support one another both academically and personally.
Beyond her academic work, Nafisa enjoys watching documentaries, learning about different cultures, and traveling. She also values quiet moments and time with friends and family, which help her maintain a balance amid the demands of graduate study.
One particularly memorable experience she shared with us through a photo comes from the summer of 2025, when she visited the Giraffe Centre in Nairobi, Kenya, with her sister and friends. Being able to interact closely with giraffes in such a beautiful outdoor setting made it a special and unforgettable moment.
Looking ahead, Nafisa is excited to continue building relationships within the SLA community and to deepen her development as a researcher. She hopes to contribute meaningful work to the field while growing alongside the people around her.