Jenna, International Relations, Senior
"I am Assyrian and Palestinian—identities people misunderstand but I carry with pride."
Jenna's identity as both Assyrian and Palestinian is something she embraces, even if it’s often misunderstood. Growing up with these rich cultural roots has taught her strength and resilience, especially when others make assumptions. She’s encountered people who guess her faith or background incorrectly, often thinking she’s Muslim when she’s actually Christian. She wears her cross necklace almost daily, not just as a symbol of her faith, but as a reminder of her Assyrian heritage—a part of her that feels both ancient and deeply personal.
Recent global events, like those on October 7, have added even more meaning to her background, pushing her to represent her heritage more fully and thoughtfully. Jenna sees the need for more genuine commitment to diversity at AU, which sometimes feels more like a tagline than a true mission. She hopes her story shows that identities are never simple, and that the AU community will appreciate the complexity of where she comes from.
For Jenna, her journey is about being understood, breaking through stereotypes, and sharing a story that’s as layered as her heritage.