Ayah Elwannas joined Susan Davis International (SDI) as a fall intern in September. Currently a freshman at Northern Virginia Community College, she is majoring in International Relations and minoring in Human Rights. She plans to complete her undergraduate degree at a Washington, D.C.-based school, and later, attend law school.
Ayah is well-traveled, and has visited 16 countries outside of the United States. She’s enjoys painting surrealism, shopping at the Barnes & Noble social justice aisle, and occasionally sparring.
Here’s more about Ayah:
What’s the best book you’ve read in the past year, and why?
The best book I have read in the past year is Fear: Trump in the White House by Bob Woodward. Although controversial, the book gave me riveting insight into the affairs of the White House during Trump’s presidency. Understanding the complexity of internal issues that the Trump Administration faced intrigued me. I definitely recommend reading it if current affairs interest you.
What’s the best piece of advice that you’ve ever received?
You make your own opportunities, no one else does.
What is your favorite country to visit, and why?
My favorite country to visit is Morocco! Originally Moroccan, I have several family members across the country. Every visit is filled with laughter and amazing company. The unique experiences I have of rich culture, history, and scenery gives me a deeper sense of self and identity each time I visit.
What is your opinion on social media? Good or bad for society?
In my opinion, social media is one of the most helpful tools for spreading information, networking, and staying connected with friends and loved ones. It has also helped society exchange ideas and stay informed in an era with a constantly active news cycle. Media platforms can be used in a foul manner, but I feel the benefits much outweigh the negatives.
How do you get your news and stay informed?
I love staying informed by watching a variety of different news channels, each associated with a certain political outlook. I feel that exposing myself to different point of views helps me best stay informed and analytic.
What is it about your work for SDI that you find most rewarding?
SDI works with a variety of organizations — each partner with a unique mission and vision. Learning about an abundance of different fields through our client work not only excites me, but gives me real-world, in-depth experience that I would not have had the ability to learn in a lecture hall.