Mohammed Karim Mrani Alaoui, known to many as “MK,” is a graduating senior earning a dual degree in finance and mathematics with a sequence in statistics. He will be recognized in both the College of Business and the College of Arts and Sciences graduation ceremonies this May.
A native of Morocco, Alaoui’s journey to Illinois State University was shaped by courage, adaptability, and academic ambition.
As an international student, Alaoui arrived in the U.S. during the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the challenges of adjusting to a new country, culture, and academic system, he immersed himself in campus life and made the most of every opportunity. He will graduate summa cum laude this May with a 3.92 GPA.
Alaoui began his U.S. college experience at Iowa State University but transferred to Illinois State after one year to be closer to his cousins, who also attended Illinois State.
“Illinois State gave me the balance I needed—great academics, a supportive community, and family close by. It felt like home.”
Mohammed Karim Mrani Alaoui
“Illinois State gave me the balance I needed—great academics, a supportive community, and family close by. It felt like home,” Alaoui said.
What started as a practical decision turned into a transformative chapter in his life. “Illinois State has one of the best business schools and a strong math department, so I knew I was making the right move,” he said.
Alaoui wore many hats during his three years at Illinois State. He served as a teaching assistant for Math 145, where he not only reinforced his foundational knowledge but also found joy in helping others succeed.
“Seeing a student walk in completely lost and leave with confidence after a session with me—that’s one of my proudest experiences,” he said.
Alaoui was also an active member of campus organizations such as Beta Gamma Sigma, the international business honor society for the top 10% of business students, and Gamma Iota Sigma, the professional fraternity for risk management and insurance. He took part in the Selective Insurance Company’s Insurance Agency Management Competition, where his team won first place in the nationwide challenge.
“When they announced we got first place, it felt surreal. It was a proud moment—not just for me, but for ISU,” Alaoui said.
Beyond academics and competitions, Alaoui found a home in the Office of International Engagement (OIE), where he attended events, trips, and workshops.
“That office changed everything for me,” Alaoui said. “It gave me a place to connect, to feel understood, and now, it’s where I go to help others feel the same way.”
OIE program director Aubrey Wagoner said Alaoui is an excellent example of what it means to be a Redbird.
“Over the years, MK has been involved in several OIE events, including International Orientation, where he served as a student panelist, answering questions and helping new students feel more at ease as they begin their ISU journey,” Wagoner said.
Alaoui credits OIE for helping him transition into college life in the U.S., and he now pays that support forward by mentoring new international students.
“I just want to give back. When I first came here, I was lost. Now I want to help others find their way,” Alaoui said.
Tyler Yozze, an international student and scholar services advisor, said Alaoui is deeply committed to the student experience in and out of the classroom.
“Every time I meet with him, he is looking for ways to become more involved around campus,” Yozze said. “I am proud that he has contributed so much to the Office of International Engagement and ISU’s campus.”
In addition to his involvement in student organizations and academic excellence, Alaoui has also made meaningful contributions to university governance. He served as a student representative on the Mathematics Department Committee and is currently a member of the College of Arts and Sciences Curriculum Committee, where he serves as secretary. In this role, he works closely with faculty and administrators to help shape academic policies and enhance the student learning experience.
After graduating this May, Alaoui will pursue a master’s degree in quantitative and computational finance at Georgia Tech, one of the top programs in the nation. And although he is leaving Illinois State, Alaoui plans to stay connected with the Redbird community.
“This place helped me grow professionally and personally. No matter where I go, I’ll always be proud to be a Redbird—and I’ll always be happy to give back.”
This story is from a series of profiles featuring Redbirds who are graduating this May. For more information about how Illinois State is celebrating commencement, visit the Graduation Services website.
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