Duke University | Baldwin Scholars Program

“The truth is that our finest moments are most likely to occur when we are feeling deeply uncomfortable, unhappy, or unfulfilled. For it is only in such moments, propelled by our discomfort, that we are likely to step out of our ruts and start searching for different ways or truer answers.” - M. Scott Peck

Lean into discomfort... take the leap.... trust that little voice in the back of your mind-  a gut feeling, call it whatever-.. trust that and just..... leap. 

I've learned this the hard way, but that hard way is what has made me, essentially, me. The process has meant stepping into unknown terrority, whether it be a realm inside of myself or challenges involving the outside world. Trust me, moving from suburbs in Canada to inner-city Richmond was not easy. Transitioning into Duke was an even larger venture. But I think I am challenged here every day- academically and socially- and for that reason, I'm loving Duke.

I've come a long way.  I am the daughter of Mariam and Suleiman Ibrahim. Of my Sudanese family, I'm the first born in these lovely States, the first to vote (and work on a major campaign), and the first to attend Duke. I am the thinker, always questioning. I often overanalyze, but I think I like that, too; it means I read between the lines. A mover and a shaker. Light sleeper but heavy dreamer. My best quality is being able to lead by inspiring others with my passion; my worst is that I assume all others have that same drive and get disappointed when they don't. I am blessed to be a Reggie Scholar, Karamu Player, and FEMMES counselor.. and  yes, Common Ground was the best decision I've made at Duke.

I'm flawed and  I'm human.

It doesn't really end here; I like to think I'll always be growing and changing, particularly through challenge and discomfort. I've always hated biographies and summarizing myself up in a box. I know I could write a dissertation and a reader still would not get the full picture. Because to be honest, I'm getting the most enjoyment out of life still working that part out.

Maab is a sophomore Public Policy Major seeking the Global Health Certificate. She is from Richmond, Virginia.  Contact her at maab.ibrahim@duke.edu.