Sumaya Binte Zilani Choya, Candidate for Vice President of Fairfax Campus
Graduate Degree Program: Doctoral student, Information Sciences and Technology, College of Engineering and Computing (full-time student)
Expected Date of Graduation: January 2030
Campus of Academic Department: Fairfax
Campus(es) of Classes, Work, and/or Residence: Fairfax, Online
Biography and Candidate Statement
My name is Sumaya Binte Zilani Choya, and I am pursuing a Ph.D. in Information Sciences and Technology at George Mason University’s Fairfax campus. My research focuses on artificial intelligence and machine learning applications in digital systems and education. Through active leadership in student organizations and campus activities, I have developed a strong commitment to supporting graduate students and strengthening the university community. Before joining George Mason University, I earned a bachelor’s degree in computer science and engineering and worked as a lecturer in computer science at Asian University of Bangladesh. Through teaching, I worked closely with students, guided them through academic challenges, and supported their development. This experience strengthened my understanding of mentorship, communication, and creating an inclusive learning environment. It also inspired me to continue supporting students in their academic journeys. At George Mason University, I serve as a Graduate Teaching Assistant. In this role, I assist with course activities, support students with their questions, and help facilitate classroom discussions. Through this experience, I have gained a deeper understanding of the challenges students face while balancing coursework, research, and other responsibilities. These interactions have motivated me to become more involved in improving communication and student support within the university community. In addition to my academic responsibilities, I am actively involved in student leadership and community engagement. I serve as the General Secretary of the Bangladesh Graduate Student Association at George Mason University. In this role, I collaborate with student leaders to organize events, encourage participation, and help create a welcoming environment for graduate students. I am also a member of the International Student Advisory Board, where I contribute to discussions and initiatives supporting international students. These roles have strengthened my communication, collaboration, and organizational skills while allowing me to represent diverse student communities. I am interested in serving as the Vice President of the Fairfax Campus because I believe graduate students should have a clear voice in university decisions affecting their academic and professional experiences. The Fairfax campus has a large and diverse population of graduate and professional students, and it is important that their concerns and perspectives are represented. If elected, my goal would be to strengthen communication between graduate students and university leadership through regular student feedback channels. I would create opportunities such as listening sessions and informal discussions through open student forums where students can share concerns and suggestions. I would also collaborate with Graduate and Professional Student Assembly (GAPSA) executive board members and university staff through coordination meetings to support initiatives that promote student well-being through wellness programs, professional development through career workshops, and access to campus resources through improved information sharing. Ensuring that students are aware of programs and resources supporting their academic and career goals is important to me. Clear communication helps students feel connected to the university community and confident navigating their graduate experience. I believe leadership involves listening, representing student voices, and working collaboratively to improve the student experience.
Availability and Commitment to the Time and Expectations of the Position
I am confident that I am capable of fulfilling the responsibilities and time commitments of the Vice President role at the Fairfax Campus. As a Ph.D. student, I am already used to managing multiple responsibilities effectively. My Ph.D. studies, research projects, and teaching duties will remain my primary commitments during the 2026–2027 academic year. To ensure that I stay fully engaged in both my academic work and leadership responsibilities, I organize my time carefully and maintain a balanced routine. Alongside my academic work, I actively participate in student organizations and leadership activities. These experiences have helped me develop strong communication, time management, and organizational skills. They have also taught me how to prioritize tasks, collaborate with others, and remain consistent in completing responsibilities. In the coming academic year, I hope to actively participate in campus discussions, attend regular meetings, and engage with graduate students across the Fairfax campus. I understand that this role involves attending meetings, supporting or organizing programs for graduate students, and working closely with other student leaders. I am fully prepared to dedicate the time and effort needed to fulfill these responsibilities. Overall, I am committed to maintaining a balanced approach so that I can continue progressing in my academic work while also making a meaningful contribution in this role. During the 2026–2027 academic year, I look forward to supporting the graduate student community and working collaboratively with the Graduate and Professional Student Association and other student leaders.