Cultural Ambassador: Othman Guennoun

“I chose Lafayette because of its amazing liberal arts education,” says Othman Guennoun. “I want a well-rounded education where I don’t just focus on my major.” With his diverse interests and talents, this Marquis Scholar is in the right place.

• BEGINNINGS: A native of Morocco, he graduated from The American School of Tangier.
• ACADEMIC FOCUS: He loves international affairs and debating, but is more interested in world economics. He plans to major in mathematics-economics and minor in international relations or government and law. “I dream of going to law school in the U.S.; I hope Lafayette helps me achieve that dream.”
• WORLDVIEW: Guennoun considers himself a product of three cultures: Arab/Muslim from his upbringing in Morocco, American from his studies at an American high school in his country, and European from frequent visits to Spain, a 30-minute ferry ride from his hometown. Others might see insult at being asked if they attended school on a camel or have Internet access at home, but Guennoun sees opportunity. “In a time of globalization, it is absolutely necessary for people to open their minds to the rest of the world. Being enrolled in an American school in a Muslim country for 15 years has pushed me to adapt to different situations and have a deep respect for all cultures. It is time to try and pass it on.”
• DEBATE AND DRAMA: A favorite activity in high school was debate club. The opportunity to debate for an audience of hundreds at the United Nations General Assembly Hall made him love it even more. He was also involved in theater.
• TALKING POINTS:
  • Book: Rooftops of Tehran by Mahbod Seraji
  • TV Show: Game of Thrones
  • Food: Moroccan beef and prunes tagine
  • Song: “How to Save a Life” by The Fray
  • Quote: “Never sacrifice who you are just because someone has a problem with it.” —Unknown
  • Free Time: volleyball and soccer
  • Last Word: “I want to make great friends, enjoy the independence, and make ‘work hard, play hard’ my motto.”