Amir Abdur-Rahim ’22 has his priorities in order. As a Guilford Christian Ministry leader, he puts God first. He also places importance on family – his mother having recommended Guilford to him.
Developing his leadership skills and his career are important to Amir. “I've matured a lot. Guilford has helped me grow, especially in leadership by taking on roles such as Orientation Team Leader.”
“My mom teaches at a small high school back in Maryland. One of her students went on to study at Guilford, so she suggested the school to me. I decided to look into it a little bit more,” he says. “I visited and found out that the small school is very diverse so that just did it for me.”
Growing at Guilford
Next comes his role as a student-athlete. Amir describes himself as an all-around guy when it comes to sports. He’s been playing them since he was 6 years old. He says that his Exercise and Sport Sciences major and Psychology minor are natural fits with his interests and background. Growing up, Amir wrestled and played football. At Guilford, he runs track and considers his coaches to be his mentors.
“Coach Marla (Lindsay) and Coach Marty (Owens) have been big influences on me in terms of trusting the process and just believing in me,” he says. “They taught me that when things go bad just keep your head up because the work that we put in now is going to pay off sooner or later.”
Amir also looks up to Judson Van Wyck, the minister of Guilford Christian Ministry, an organization that supports students in their spiritual journey. “We have Bible studies and talks. He’s just got this peace within him,” Amir says. “He’s been such a big influence and has always been in my corner.”
Developing his leadership skills and his career are also important to Amir. “I've matured a lot,” he says. “Guilford has helped me grow, especially in leadership by taking on roles such as Orientation Team Leader.”
Going Forward
This summer, Amir will intern with Fellowship of Christian Athletes. He’ll help coach, further develop his leadership skills, and manage social media. He spent another summer as an intern at a neurorestorative center in Maryland that treats patients with brain injuries.
What advice does this all-around guy have for other Guilfordians? “If you’re having trouble making decisions and don’t know which way to go, or just with life in general, pray about it. Ask God to guide your steps and to lead the way. You’ll be surprised at what happens. Trust in the Lord with all your heart and he will never let you down!”
To learn more about sports, clubs, and organizations at Guilford College, schedule your personalized visit online or contact the Office of Admission at 336.316.2100 or admission@guilford.edu to learn more.