From an early age, Ebead was drawn to the legal world and the systems that shape it. “I was always fascinated by the structures behind the law and how the justice system works,” she explains. That curiosity led her to complete a high school internship at a criminal law firm, where she gained firsthand insight into the Canadian justice system and witnessed the real-world impact of legal work. The experience inspired her to pursue criminology, but it was during her first year at Western that her interest truly deepened.

“Taking SOC 1025 with Professor Kleinknecht made me fall in love with criminology,” Ebead shares. “His teaching sparked my interest in understanding the social, psychological, and institutional factors that shape the justice system.”

Alongside her interest in criminology, Ebead was equally drawn to the corporate and regulatory side of law. She found herself curious about how organizations make decisions, how policy influences behaviour, and how law and commerce intersect in everyday life. That perspective was shaped further in her second year through Business Law with Professor Phil King. “That course changed the way I viewed the legal field,” she says. “It showed me how broad and versatile a legal education can be.”

By combining an Honours Specialization in Management and Legal Studies under BMOS with a major in Criminology, Ebead found a program that offered the best of both worlds. “This interdisciplinary approach gives me both the analytical, research-focused perspective of criminology and the practical, decision-making framework of management and legal studies,” she explains. “Together, they’ve prepared me with the social understanding and commercial awareness I believe are essential for my goal of attending law school after graduation.”

One of the most meaningful academic opportunities Ebead has had at Western is becoming a Teaching Assistant in King’s. “This role helped me grow both academically and professionally,” she says. “I wouldn’t have been able to take on this responsibility without the strong support from faculty.” Through this experience, she strengthened her communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills while gaining deeper confidence in her academic path. “Professors are very approachable and open to sharing their experiences,” Ebead adds. “It’s easy to ask for advice, and that guidance has made a huge difference.”

Beyond the classroom, Ebead has been deeply involved in student leadership and community-building. Serving as an Off-Campus Soph was one of the most rewarding parts of her Western experience. “I loved being the first friendly face students met when they arrived,” she reflects. “Helping them feel comfortable and supported reminded me of how important belonging is, especially for students living off campus for the first time.”

She also took on an additional leadership role as Financial Executive of the Off-Campus Student Council, mentoring first-year students as they navigated planning, budgeting, and decision-making. “Supporting students who were just beginning to explore their leadership potential was especially meaningful,” she says.

Ebead’s involvement extends across campus. She serves as Advocacy Coordinator for the Islamic Relief Club, helping organize charity initiatives and awareness campaigns, and as a Finance Executive for the Muslim Student Association, supporting budgeting and event planning. These roles, she says, have helped her build community, develop lasting friendships, and contribute to causes she cares deeply about.

Her academic excellence has also been recognized through the Sociology First Year Award, valued at $400, which is awarded to the student with the highest average in a first-year Sociology course. For Ebead, this recognition reflects the supportive environment she has found within the Faculty of Social Science.

“The faculty and student community are incredibly encouraging,” she notes. “People share advice, collaborate, and motivate each other to get involved.” Reflecting on her journey, Ebead credits the Faculty of Social Science with helping her grow both personally and academically. “Being surrounded by supportive professors and motivated students pushed me outside my comfort zone and helped me discover what I’m capable of.”

Her advice to prospective students is simple and sincere: “It’s never too late to get involved. Go to events, try clubs, and apply for opportunities that interest you. Even the most unexpected experiences can shape your time at Western.” She also encourages students to connect with faculty. “Attend office hours and ask questions. Professors genuinely want to help, and those conversations can lead to meaningful academic and professional opportunities.”

Nour Usama Ali Ebead’s story reflects the power of interdisciplinary learning, mentorship, and student engagement. It is a powerful example of how the Faculty of Social Science supports students in building confidence, discovering their passions, and preparing for what comes next.