Salwa Bin Shams

When Salwa Bin Shams came to CCBC as an international student, getting involved offered a way to meet people, build community and feel more connected to college life. She found that — and much more — through the Student Government Association (SGA).

Now SGA president and a Pinnacle Award recipient, the Business Administration Major says stepping outside her comfort zone helped her grow as a leader, strengthen her communication skills and discover the impact students can have when they use their voices.

College goes by quickly, so take that first step. Getting involved can become one of the most meaningful parts of your college experience.

We sat down with Salwa for a Q&A to learn more about her experiences, the connections she's made and how getting involved has enriched her college journey.

Q: What made you decide to get involved in student life at CCBC?

A: As an international student, I wanted to connect with people from different backgrounds and feel more involved in the college community. Joining SGA gave me the chance to meet students I might not have met just by going to class and learn about different perspectives.

I also wanted to step outside my comfort zone and grow as a person and a leader. It made my experience at CCBC much more meaningful because I wasn’t only earning my degree; I was becoming part of a diverse community and contributing to it.

Q: When did you realize getting involved had become an important part of your CCBC experience?

A: When we went to Annapolis for Maryland Association of Community Colleges (MACC) Advocacy Day. Seeing students come together to advocate for community colleges made me realize that our voices actually matter.

As an international student, that was especially meaningful because it made me feel like I truly had a place and a voice in the community. I realized getting involved wasn’t just about meeting people or attending events. It was also about making a difference and standing up for students.

Q: What have you gained from being a student leader that you didn’t expect?

A: The lasting friendships and connections I made. I joined SGA because I wanted to get involved and become a better leader, but I ended up meeting people who became an important part of my college experience.

I also had opportunities to connect with students, faculty, staff and other leaders who helped me learn and grow. It taught me that leadership isn’t just about the position you hold — it’s also about the relationships you build.

Q: What has been one of your most memorable experiences through SGA?

A: I’ve enjoyed preparing for events, speaking in front of students and helping new members who joined SGA. As I became more experienced, being able to welcome and guide new students was especially meaningful because I remembered what it felt like to be new myself.

Seeing them become more comfortable and involved made me realize how much I had grown too.

Q: What did receiving a Pinnacle Award mean to you?

A: It meant a lot because I never got involved expecting recognition. I joined because I wanted to meet people, become part of the CCBC community and make a positive impact.

As an international student, the award reminded me how far I had come — from trying to find my place and connect with others to becoming a student leader who could help other students feel welcome and involved.

Q: What would you tell a student who isn’t sure they have the time or confidence to join a club?

A: Just give it a chance. You don’t have to be the most confident or outgoing person. Confidence comes with experience.

College goes by quickly, so take that first step. Getting involved can become one of the most meaningful parts of your college experience.

Thinking about getting involved? Discover what student life at CCBC has to offer and connect with the Office of Student Engagement.