No Degree Without Opportunity
Yousif Abbadi never planned to become a student advocate. As a student and entrepreneur, he saw a challenge many students face: employers ask for experience, but students often struggle to find opportunities to gain it.
That experience inspired his mission to connect education with employment. As a candidate for Student Employment & Career Integration Commissioner, Yousif is committed to expanding paid internships, strengthening employer partnerships, and creating career-focused opportunities that help students graduate ready for success.
He believes every student deserves more than a degree—they deserve a pathway to opportunity.
Every student deserves real experience before graduation.
Too many students graduate with a degree but no experience. Employers often ask for experience before offering opportunities, creating a difficult cycle for students entering the workforce.
I support expanding paid internships and employer partnerships so students can gain practical experience while completing their education. Every student deserves the chance to build skills, confidence, and professional connections before graduation.
— Yousif Abbadi
Stronger connections between students and employers
Students should not have to navigate their career journey alone. Universities and employers can work together to create mentorship programs, networking opportunities, and career-focused events that help students build meaningful professional connections before graduation.
— Yousif Abbadi