Rim Nassiri

High school: Groupe Scolaire Romandie

Hometown: Casablanca, Morocco

Majors: Computer science, data analytics - data science

Minor: Mathematics

Activities: Google Developer Student Club (GDSC), admissions ambassador

Internship: TrAC REU (Research Experience for Undergrads) program at Iowa State University, where I worked on AI and machine learning research

Post-grad plans: Digital Leadership Development Program at Raytheon Technologies, starting my first rotation as a software developer at Collins Aerospace

Why Augustana?

I chose Augustana because I wanted a smaller campus where professors could truly get to know me, not just my name, but my strengths and goals. I also loved the beautiful nature around campus; the peaceful walks and green spaces made Augustana feel like home, and it’s something I’ll really miss.

Are you where you thought you'd be when you first came to campus?

Not at all! When I first came to Augustana, all I was thinking about was just taking my classes and getting through it. I never thought about growing as a person. But looking back, I’m honestly shocked at how far I’ve come. I’m way more confident. I actually believe in myself now compared to high school, and even my parents and friends say I’m not the same person I was four years ago. I feel ready for the real world, and I’m really proud of who I’ve become.

Who helped you get to where you are now?

When I think about who helped me get here, I feel incredibly grateful. Professor Mueller was the first person who introduced me to coding. I came to college with zero experience, feeling behind. But she made it feel possible and showed me I belong in computer science. Dr. Stonedahl was also always there for support whenever I needed it, and that meant a lot.

My parents have been my foundation through it all. No matter the distance or time difference, they always picked up the phone when I needed them. My mom especially knew how anxious I could get and always brought me back to what really matters, which kept me grounded when things got overwhelming. It really carried me through!

I’m also so thankful for my friends and the community I found here. I love having fun and making memories, and finding people to relax with on the weekends made this experience even better.

Above everything, I’m thankful to God for always putting me back on my feet when I doubted myself.

Peak experience?

As an admissions ambassador, speaking as a student panelist in front of 200 people during a Visit Day was a moment I’ll never forget, especially after growing up shy. Another peak experience was presenting my AI research during a computer science seminar and seeing so many students genuinely interested. 

And being invited to Google I/O in San Jose as part of GDSC opened my eyes to how much there is to learn and how powerful connections and networking can be. I wish I could relive it all again!

What surprised you?

What surprised me most was how many opportunities are out there once you open your eyes and heart to them. Just being curious and trying new things and saying "yes" led to so many amazing experiences. I was also surprised by how kind people are! Everyone’s willing to help, and it reminded me that we’re all figuring things out together.

How did you use your Augie Choice?

I used my Augie Choice to support my AI research at Iowa State University. It helped cover transportation, meals and some professional clothes, which made my parents really proud because I finally looked like I had my life together!

What will you miss the most?

I’ll miss how close we all are. After graduation, we’ll be spread out, and I’ll miss the late-night drives, random adventures, and knowing I could just call a friend and hang out. I’ll also miss walking around campus and knowing so many faces, waving, making small talk and having those little moments that always brightened my day. Just having that energy and closeness around all the time made Augustana feel like home.

Advice for the Class of 2029?

Say "yes" more than "no." You never know what doors it’ll open. Try things you never pictured yourself doing, even if they scare you, because that’s how you grow. If you fall (and you will sometimes), get back up and keep going — it’s all part of becoming who you are. Enjoy the ride!