Abdikadar Ali, a computer information technology major at Northern Kentucky University, has done much more than succeed academically.

As a first-generation student, Abdikadar has taken on several roles on campus. He’s president of the National Society of Black Engineers, student ambassador for the College of Informatics and junior advisor for Alpha Lambda Honor Society. These are just a few of the positions Abdikadar has accepted during his time at NKU.

He has also had the opportunity to work as both as a research assistant and teaching assistant in the Informatics department. These accomplishments are more than just resume builders for him, though. 

“Getting involved on campus offers some of the most rewarding experiences,” he says. 

Abdikadar has also had the opportunity to employ his skills in a real-world setting during his time as an intern for the Kroger Technology & Digital Program. 

In addition to his organizational achievements, Abdikadar has thrived in his academic career. Professor Ankur Chattopadhyay praises Ali’s diligence. 

“With his self-motivation, dedication and exceptional work ethics, Ali has set high standards for other students at NKU,” Chattopadhyay says. 

Abdikadar owes his successes at NKU to the professors and other students he has gotten to know during his academic career. 

“I’m surrounded by passionate, supportive and motivated individuals who push me to succeed in everything that I do,” he says. 

Abdikadar is extremely grateful for the community spirit that NKU has to offer. He says the Norse family is full of countless mentors who continuously provide him with what he needs to succeed. 

“Every student who comes here has a dream. I know I did,” he says. “And at NKU, every student is given the opportunity to be the best you that you can be.”