Senior Rafay Arshad came to Gustavus from Pakistan three years ago, aspiring to endeavor in the unknown and his understanding of different cultures and people. Since coming to Gustavus, Mr. Arshad has developed multiple meaningful relationships and participated in several co- curricular activities on campus, including Student Senate and Building Bridges.

Arshad shares that he most values the meaningful relationships that he has developed and thewide range of experience that he has had during his time at Gustavus. 

As a Senior International Management Major, Arshad is well-known among his peers to be an organized and trustworthy person.

Earlier this year, Arshad represented Gustavus at the Celebration of Philanthropy dinner, where he connected with Gustavus alumni who wish to reconnect and offer help to current Gusties. 

“Never be afraid to do or take part in something new. Always be curious, whether or not something works out.”
-Rafay Arshad  

Senior Erik Rischmiller , Epsilon Pi Alpha’s new member chair, shared with The Gustavian Weekly: “[Arshad] does a lot of networking. He is very good at putting together events. He is very organized; you can trust him,and know that he will get something done on time.” 

Arshad is the Alumni Chair in his fraternity and has organized a networking event with alumni Epsilon Pi Alpha brothers, for which 25 alumni showed up. 

This event has been a valuable opportunity for Gusties from older generations to connect and share their experience with current Gusties. Arshad recently finished his training to be a Collegiate Fellow and has already made one of his favorite memories with his Residential Life colleagues.

According to Rischmiller, Arshad as a friend is a very humble, friendly and hilarious person who is always ready to talk to his friends and put smiles on their faces.

“[Arshad] does a lot of networking. He is very good at putting together events. He is very organized; you can trust him, and know that he will get something done on time”

-Senior Erik Rischmiller

This wonderful personality explains the love Arshad receives from his colleagues. This year, Arshad will be involved with Building Bridges as Director of Finance.

He joins Building Bridges (again) aspiring to explore nonprofit and social justice organizations, as he wishes to help provide underprivileged children with quality education in the future.

Arshad feels honored to be Gustie of the Week and to share his story with The Gustavian Weekly. With his open mindset, Arshad wishes to promote generative activities, which passes on the legacy from earlier to newer generations.

Arshad has a message for new students, especially international students who are just starting their college career: “Never be afraid to do or take part in something new. Always be curious, whether or not something works out or you like it. It will always be a learning experience for you because the more we understand ourselves, the more we can really lean into our talents. This will then help you to align yourself with what you are more naturally good at and will help you to spend your time and choose your commitments better.”

Enjoying his last year at Gustavus, Arshad plans to make new friends, connect students from different generations with one another, and give back to the community as much as he has received and valued. 

Thank you, Rafay, for everything you do on campus.your kindness, hardworking nature, and ability to bring people together will be greatly missed on campus. You have left a permanent imprint on our campus with all of the wonderful work you have done during your four years here.