In an empty B-School breakout room, I catch a glimpse of myself in my phone’s reflection. I’m ready to hit record. I’ve practiced my script many times, but the excitement still bubbles inside me. Most importantly, I can’t wait to see how my video will turn out. Holding the microphone, I take a deep breath and cheerfully say, “Hi Billikens!”
I never imagined I would become a “SLUfluencer,” which is what my friends call me for creating social media content for Saint Louis University (SLU). This opportunity fell into my lap when I stumbled upon an Instagram story from @slu_official. They were looking for students for “Project Billikens” to share their college experiences. It was a chance I didn’t know I needed.
Project Billiken is a group of student content creators under the Division of Marketing and Communications at SLU. We produce posts about our college lives for SLU’s official platforms, covering everything from different academic programs to various student experiences. Before starting college, I wasn’t entirely sure what activities I’d get involved in, but I knew this opportunity was too good to pass up.
I’ve always loved capturing moments, whether it’s with my digital camera or creating designs on Canva. I thrive on conversation and cherish creating connections with others. In our highly connected world, content creation has allowed me to blend these passions seamlessly.
Back in high school, I managed a nonprofit’s Instagram page and designed flyers for events while taking countless photos. These experiences helped me feel seen in both a creative and social sense. Growing up in a close-knit Muslim community, I often focused my content on my identity and experiences. When I transitioned to SLU, I was unsure how these interests would carry over.
But I was not alone. Many incoming freshmen felt anxious about fitting in. As a visibly Muslim woman and a first-generation college student, I had my own worries. Would I find my place at SLU? Or would I need to create it myself?
When I submitted my portfolio for Project Billiken, I showcased my true self. I included aspects of my identity and my passion for storytelling, hoping to represent myself authentically. In my role, I aim to continue highlighting my experiences.
Through my content, I share my favorite coffee shops and local spots around St. Louis. I also take my followers through my busy week as a student juggling classes and extracurriculars. I love to share snippets of my life, from going to the mosque to working on campus publications like The University News. Each part contributes to my college journey.
Being part of Project Billiken has given me the courage to embrace new spaces and create my own. Even as someone who loves being around people, it can be nerve-wracking to speak to a camera and share my thoughts with hundreds of fellow students. However, this role has helped me grow in confidence.
Looking back, becoming a SLUfluencer sparked my involvement in other areas at SLU. Sharing my face and voice on social media prepared me for more opportunities on campus. Additionally, this experience has allowed me to explore my passion for content creation.
I’m motivated to keep sharing when friends from the Muslim Student Association express how seeing someone like them on SLU’s social media makes a difference. My family and community encourage me to continue creating content that helps others feel represented. I truly believe everyone has a place at SLU, and I want to help illustrate that through my work.
The role of a SLUfluencer is special to me because it gives me a way to express my creativity and find my voice at SLU. As the new semester unfolds, I’m excited to capture moments with my phone and digital camera for future projects, hoping to create meaningful content that resonates with my fellow Billikens.
