Professor Suhail Islam teaches the ways of the world and the rules of the game

With a mix of deep class discussions and epic athletic events, Professor of English and Communication Suhail Islam gives Nazareth students an eye-opening global view.

"I want students to connect the experiences of other countries to their own society," said Dr. Islam. "They should relate international issues like poverty and discrimination not only to the United States, but to their own backyard of Rochester."

Born and raised in Bangladesh, Islam came to the States by way of North Africa, Canada, and England. His time as an American grad student was a culture shock. "My professors encouraged me to have my own ideas and speak my mind freely, without being afraid of wrong or right. I didn't see that in the British system," said Islam. "I felt empowered. That's how I want my students to feel. Be honest, not necessarily politically correct."

Bringing History to Life

His classes, which range from Nonwestern Literature to Linguistics and Communication, connect the dots between subjects. "In his class I made so many connections between economics, socialization, politics, and the arts," said Kathleen Baldwin '10 (Victor, N.Y.). "Those views have carried over into my perceptions in daily life and provided me with a critical lens to use in my academic work."

Islam uses personal stories as examples in his classes, from the effects of globalization on his family to his research about the Bangladeshi famine. "When we study the 1970 Bangladesh Liberation War, I can help students really understand, because I was there," he said. "Being able to share my experiences of losing relatives and comrades makes the consequences of war tangible."

Exercising Minds and Bodies

Islam has even more to offer outside the classroom—and it may garner curious stares. A first-class cricketer in Bangladesh, he finishes every semester with a stress-busting match that pits students against professors.

The rules of cricket are similar to baseball, making it easy to pick up for those unfamiliar with the sport.

His students play abbreviated games (real matches can last up to five days!) and swap out some of the equipment. "We don’t play with an actual cricket ball because it's too hard and we'd need proper protective padding. We use a tennis ball wrapped in electrical tape to give it the same weight," Islam explained.

The games attract plenty of onlookers, and there’s even talk of starting an intramural team.

Another tradition that brings people together? Food, of course. "I invite my students to my house for dinner. My wife cooks traditional Bangladeshi food—biryani, kebabs, and samosas. It's a wonderful way for everyone to get to know each other—especially the international students."

But classrooms and cricket matches aren't the only ways for students to expand their world views. "It's not hard. Ask the international students for their perspectives. Study abroad. Participate in community service," he said. "Just open yourself up."