Congratulations to the 2008-09 Big Ten Rhodes Scholars

• Mr. Abdulrahman M. El-Sayed (Michigan)
• Ms. Anna Yermakova (Northwestern)
• Ms. Ashley L. Nord (Minnesota)
• Ms. Mallory A. Dwinal (Northwestern)

Highlights of their bios after the jump. Find out more information about Rhodes Scholars here. All information taken from Rhodes Trust press releases.

Abdulrahman M. El-Sayed (Michigan)

*Earned a joint degree in biology and political science, before entering a joint MD/PhD program in medicine and public health
*Starting varsity lacrosse player
*Has been published in scientific journals
*Vice President of Michigan Muslim Student Association

Anna Yermakova (Northwestern)

*Majoring in biochemistry, piano, and history and philosophy of science and logic
*Emigrated to the US from Russia when she was 11
*Won awards for piano and French
*Researched chemical engineering, nanotechnology, neuroscience, and biomedical engineering
*Composed and choreographed works in ballroom dance and flamenco

Ashley L. Nord (University of Minnesota)

*Graduating with a triple major in physics, astrophysics, and global studies with a minor in Spanish
*Won fourth place in pole vaulting at the Big Ten championship
*Researched biophysics and astronomy
*Writing senior thesis on the drug trade between Latin America and the US

Mallory A. Dwina (Northwestern)

*Graduated with majors in Spanish, economics, and international studies
*Studied at Qinghua University in Beijing
*Founded a program that coordinates and funds ESL education in Chicago primary schools
*Ranked top among college students in impromptu and extemporaneous speaking
*Leads daily meals program at a homeless shelter