Shadeed Aamir Khan
Assistant Director of International Admissions
Knox College (IL)
What drew you to the world of college admission counseling?
My journey into higher education began with my own challenges as an international student. When I first came to the U.S. for my studies, I had very little support and was unaware of the many opportunities available — whether for scholarships, internships, or post-graduation employment. I still remember my mother sitting me down at our dining table with her laptop, researching institutions and scholarships. That experience shaped my understanding of how overwhelming the college search process can be, especially for students navigating it alone.
Things changed for me in graduate school when I had the opportunity to work as a graduate assistant in my institution’s international student services office. That experience was a turning point — it made me realize that this was the right career path for me. I find immense fulfillment in guiding students of all backgrounds toward opportunities that align with their aspirations. I particularly enjoy working with those who might not have had strong college preparation, ensuring they have the resources and support they need to succeed.
As I advance in my career, I aspire to move into upper leadership roles within higher education. I truly believe that working closely with students — understanding their needs and goals — provides the strongest foundation for leadership. Retaining a student-centered approach will be key to shaping policies and initiatives that genuinely support their success. No matter where my career takes me, my focus will always be on empowering students and ensuring they have access to the opportunities they deserve.
What is your favorite part of the job?
The best part of my job is the opportunity to connect with our applicants and students. It’s an incredible journey to first meet someone as an applicant, witness their growth throughout the years, and then see them succeed as students and professionals. There’s something truly special about being part of their academic story. What makes it even more rewarding is when I have the chance to reconnect with these students while traveling to different cities and countries for work. Seeing them thrive in new environments, knowing I played a small role in their journey, is an experience I deeply cherish.
How has NACAC played a role in your career?
Since becoming a member of NACAC, I’ve heard so many colleagues talk about the impact it has had on their careers. I’m excited to take advantage of the resources, build connections with others in the field, and get involved in committees that will help me grow professionally. It’s a great opportunity to learn, collaborate, and gain the experience I need to keep moving forward in my career so that I can continue to positively affect the lives of students.
What do you think is the biggest challenge facing our profession today?
The biggest challenge that we face in this industry today is the recent demographic shift, where we have fewer applicants attempting to enroll themselves in college. Of course, the enrollment cliff as well as rising costs of college attendance are big factors here.
Specific to my area of employment, tougher visa policies, global competition by institutions in other major academic destination nations, and economic conditions have made it harder for U.S. institutions to attract international students, who often pay full tuition and help subsidize costs.
When you aren’t working, what do you like to do?
When I am off work, the first thing I do is go and lift weights so that I can come back home and eat a large satisfying dinner. Did I tell you all that I love to cook? My wife and I have been experimenting with various Indian cuisines and Indo-fusion recipes of our own. I also enjoy spending time with my Velcro-dog and playing tug with him. And I enjoy reading and thinking critically about research papers in our field as I work on my own Ph.D. dissertation.
What five words would you use to describe yourself?
1) Passionate
2) Student-centered
3) Knowledge-seeking (this is a lifelong journey I have embarked upon)
4) Empathic
5) Culturally competent (this too, is a lifelong journey)
Published April 21, 2025