Graduate Student Government (GSG) is entering a new chapter, with new leadership. Its focus? Strengthening graduate support … through campus and community initiatives.
Kazi Rana wants to help make graduate student life at Clemson more enjoyable and supportive. It’s what led him to apply for the role of senator in GSG representing his academic program in August 2024.
Fast forward one year, and Rana now presides over GSG — working tirelessly to provide leadership to Clemson’s 5,676 graduate students on important issues such as housing, transportation, parking, career development and health resources.
Rana is a third-year Ph.D. student in the biomedical data science and informatics program. Originally from Bangladesh, Rana has enjoyed his Clemson experience through mentoring new students, participating in cultural events and supporting community initiatives.
“My past experiences in GSG gave me a deeper understanding of the needs and aspirations of Clemson’s graduate students and inspired me to serve at a higher level,” says Rana, who also served as director of graduate student organizational funding in 2024-25. “I’ve experienced many of the same challenges as other graduate students and am here to listen to my peers and work together toward real solutions.”
Rana isn’t traveling the road alone, though. GSG is advised by leadership within Student Affairs, and recently the division appointed Assistant Vice President Alesia Smith to work specifically with the graduate student population — building on the successful efforts of previous advisor, Associate Vice President and Dean of Students Kimberly Poole.
“Graduate students strengthen our academic reputation and enrich the lives around them with contributions as scholars, researchers, teachers and leaders,” Smith says. “They embody the spirit of collaboration, innovation and service that makes the Clemson experience distinctive and transformative. My role is to address student concerns proactively and ensure they have the resources, support and opportunities they need to thrive as we deliver the No. 1 student experience.”
For Smith, it starts with supporting Rana and everyone in Graduate Student Government.
“Kazi has provided valuable insight into the graduate student experience, and our conversations have helped me better understand the opportunities and challenges ahead,” she says. “I appreciate his openness, energy and commitment to advocacy for his classmates.”
