ACE sophomore Fatima Aljneibi chose Illinois, where agriculture, environment, and policy intersect
When Fatima Aljneibi began exploring international universities beyond her home in the United Arab Emirates, she knew she wanted a place where her interests in agriculture, the environment, and public policy could converge. Her college counselor encouraged her to look at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign — and once she discovered the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences, the path became clear.
For her, the Environmental Economics and Policy concentration offered by the Department of Agricultural and Consumer Economics “perfectly combined” the things she cares most about.
Now a sophomore, Fatima is energized by the way her coursework weaves together those three fields, which are often discussed in isolation. Understanding how environmental decisions shape agriculture, and how policy ties them together, has given her a sense of purpose that guides her academic journey.
“Studying that intersection feels both important and exciting,” she said. “It motivates me to think about how I can contribute to solutions in the future.”
Building community and leadership at Illinois
After spending her first year observing campus life and finding her footing, Fatima stepped into roles this fall that have already become defining parts of her Illinois experience. She joined the National Agri-Marketing Association (NAMA), where she’s exploring the creative and business side of agriculture. She’s also leading a new initiative that holds personal significance: founding the first Emirati Student Association at Illinois.
“When I arrived last year, there were only a few Emirati students on campus,” she said. “Creating a space that represents where I come from — and building a community for future Emirati students — means a lot to me.”
This fall, Fatima was invited by the UAE Ministry of Finance to attend the UAE Banks Reception in Washington, D.C. as a member of the Emirati Global Youth Council in the United States. Held alongside IMF and World Bank meetings, the event brought together global leaders, senior officials, and distinguished guests.
For Fatima, the experience was both humbling and motivating. “Being able to represent my country in that space meant a lot,” she said. “Seeing the milestones being celebrated and meeting so many accomplished individuals was truly inspiring.”
She had the opportunity to speak with the UAE Ambassador to the United States and the Under Secretary of the UAE Ministry of Finance — conversations that offered a glimpse into the policy careers she hopes to pursue. “It reinforced my desire to contribute to that work in the years ahead,” she said.
Advice for the next generation of ACE students
Reflecting on her journey, Fatima is quick to highlight the power of the ACE community — something she didn’t fully appreciate until she experienced it firsthand.
“I never realized how big the ACE network was until I started meeting people,” she said. “Almost every path I’ve considered, an ACE student or alum has already explored. There’s always someone willing to guide you or share their experience.”
Her message to new students is simple: connect widely, ask questions, and take advantage of the community around you. “It’s one of the biggest strengths of this college,” she said.
As she looks ahead, she’s grateful — and excited — for what comes next.
“Policy depends on understanding different backgrounds, communicating effectively, and building relationships,” Fatima said. “The experiences I’m having here are helping me grow into the kind of person and leader I want to be. I’m excited for everything that’s ahead and for the opportunities to keep learning, growing, and contributing along the way.