Fatimata Ly’s studies took her to Tunisia and Italy and deepened her passion for international affairs. “Take full advantage of your liberal arts education, explore disciplines you’re unfamiliar with and step outside your comfort zone,” she said.

Photo Credit: Deb Grove

Fatimata Ly '25

Major: Government 

Minor: Africana studies

Home: Brooklyn, N.Y.

Activities at F&M: Co-president, African Caribbean Association; volunteer, F&M Action for Refugee Resettlement; campus ambassador, Free the Facts; Civics Bee intern, Lancaster Chamber of Commerce; DEI officer, Class Cabinet; Alexander Hamilton Society; First-Year Advising Mentor; Benjamin Franklin Financial Services Honors Society; Black Student Union; Muslim Student Association; Women's Club Rugby

Related story: A Summer in D.C: Senior Eyes Career in Foreign Service

Why did you choose to attend F&M?

I chose F&M for its strong liberal arts education and its proximity to home. The College fosters an environment where students can broaden their perspectives through interactions with peers from around the world and by exploring diverse academic disciplines. F&M’s dedication to fostering global perspectives inspired me to study abroad during my junior year, an experience that took me to Tunisia and Italy and deepened my passion for international affairs. Additionally, the small, close-knit campus allowed me to form meaningful relationships with my peers, professors, and faculty members, connections that have been instrumental in my academic and personal growth.

What is something that you did for fun at F&M?

For fun, I loved exploring Lancaster’s diverse food scene. The city is a cultural melting pot, and its range of cuisines reminds me of being in New York City. My favorite ice cream spot is the legendary Splits & Giggles, my favorite restaurant is Tequila Mexican Grill and my favorite cafe is New Holland Coffee Co.

What did you enjoy most about your time at the College?

I enjoyed being part of different clubs and contributing to a stronger, more inclusive F&M community. Serving on executive boards allowed me to develop my leadership skills while fostering spaces where students from all backgrounds felt welcomed and supported. These experiences helped me grow both professionally and personally while forming deep connections with my peers.

What are your plans after graduation?

I have been awarded a Fulbright U.S. Student Program award to serve as a Fulbright English Teaching Assistant in Italy.

What brief advice would you give to incoming students in F&M’s Class of 2029?

Take full advantage of your liberal arts education, explore disciplines you’re unfamiliar with and step outside your comfort zone. Get involved in the many clubs on campus; it’s a great way to meet people and build your network. Don’t overlook Lancaster! It’s a small city, but it has a lot to offer in terms of culture, food and events. Lastly, build meaningful relationships with F&M’s faculty. They are incredibly supportive and will be there to guide you throughout your journey.

“I enjoyed being part of different clubs and contributing to a stronger, more inclusive F&M community.”

— Fatimata Ly '25

"F&M’s dedication to fostering global perspectives inspired me to study abroad during my junior year, an experience that took me to Tunisia and Italy and deepened my passion for international affairs," said Fatimata Ly '25.

Fatimata Ly '25 attended the Charles B. Rangel International Affairs Summer Enrichment Program (SEP), a program designed to provide undergraduate students with a deeper appreciation of current issues and trends as well as career opportunities in international affairs.

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