Rija Khan served as Student Body President at Wichita State University.Courtesy photo
Meet a Shocker: Rija Khan
May 1, 2022
By WSU Strategic Communications
School of Criminal Justice
Founded in 1934, the criminal justice program at Wichita State University is the second-oldest
program of its type in the United States.
The program works in cooperation with other disciplines in the School of Criminal
Justice to teach students to assimilate knowledge, acquire skills and develop professional
judgment and behaviors appropriate for wise and ethical practice.
Rija Khan served as Student Body President at Wichita State University and learned
leadership skills. She plans on attending law school.
Rija is one of more than 2,400 students eligible for spring 2022 graduation. Learn
more about her time at Wichita State and what is next for the grad.
Hometown
Karachi, Pakistan
Degree
I am receiving a Bachelor of Science in criminal justice.
What made you want to attend Wichita State?
It has always felt like home. I had always considered attending Wichita State since
my family members before me attended this institution. However, I choose to stay because
of the sense of community and care everyone has for each other.
How are you feeling leading up to graduation?
I am excited to move on to the next chapter in life and sad to leave the friendships
behind.
What was been your biggest challenge as a student, and how did you overcome it?
My biggest challenge has been not feeling like a student due to my leadership roles
on campus. Instead of overcoming the issue, I embraced the identity and worked with
people.
What has been your most helpful learning experience at Wichita State?
It was becoming the Student Body President as I got to be in spaces that expedited
my experience and growth.
What are your plans after graduation?
I want to attend law school and work for a Muslim woman politician.
How did the COVID-19 pandemic affect your time at Wichita State?
It gave me the space to leave a lasting impact on campus as I participated in university
decision-making.
What advice would you give other Wichita State students?
Do not be afraid to ask questions. The more you ask, the more ways to solve a problem
you will find.
