Azeem Khan, a West Virginia University student, is a finalist for the Rhodes Scholarship, one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious international awards.
The native of Charleston is a political science major with minors in business cybersecurity and philosophy. He was designated the University’s 26th Truman Scholar earlier this year.
“I am honored and humbled to receive the opportunity to compete for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” Khan said. “The Rhodes Trust has an extremely challenging application process, which I have found very rewarding every step of the way. I have no doubt, regardless of the outcome this weekend, this next step will be equally fulfilling.”
Khan will be interviewed by the Rhodes District 11 Selection Committee in Detroit on November 10 and 11. The scholarship is for two years of postgraduate study at Oxford University in England.
“Azeem truly embodies the Rhodes Scholarship selection criteria, including academic excellence, an ability to lead others, and a desire to make positive changes in the world,” Amy Cyphert, director of the ASPIRE Office, said. “He is a shining example of what can be accomplished through hard work, service to others and fully embracing the opportunities available at WVU.”
If selected, Khan intends to pursue a Master of Science in Criminology and Criminal Justice as well as a Master of Public Policy.
“This would not be possible without the incredible support of my family, friends and mentors,” Khan said. “I am touched by the outpouring of encouragement and help I continue to receive from Mountaineers and West Virginians across our state and country. I will do my best to make our university and state proud this weekend in Detroit.”
The Honors College student has served in a variety of leadership positions on campus. He is a member of the Presidential Student Ambassadors and the Mountaineer Fentanyl Task Force. He previously served as the Student Government Association’s president pro tempore and senator-at-large.
In addition to his role as a student leader, Khan works as a government relations intern for the WVU Office of Government Relations, where he collaborates with faculty, legislators, cybersecurity, economic, and business experts to develop and implement a strategic plan to advance cybersecurity-related economic development efforts across the state.
Yoav Kaddar, professor of dance and faculty adviser for the Rhodes Scholarship, and the ASPIRE Office, which assists students in pursuing national honors, provided assistance with the application.
Every year, 32 American students are chosen from among more than 100 Rhodes Scholars worldwide, based on academic excellence, commitment to service, ambition for social impact, and leadership potential.
