Capitol News

Michigan State University alumnus Mustafa Syed has been selected as a Schwarzman Scholar, becoming the second individual from MSU to receive this honor. The Schwarzman Scholars program offers a fully funded one-year master's degree and leadership training at Tsinghua University in Beijing, China. For its 10th cohort, nearly 5,000 applicants were considered globally, with 400 reaching the interview stage. Ultimately, 150 scholars from 38 countries and 105 universities were chosen.

Syed expressed his gratitude for the opportunity: “I am deeply honored to represent MSU on a global stage. The love and support I experienced as a student played an integral role in shaping my success today.”

MSU President Kevin M. Guskiewicz praised Syed's accomplishments: “Mustafa is an admirable example of Spartan entrepreneurial excellence and leadership. We’re very proud of his success and know that, with Mustafa’s determination to make a positive difference in international settings, he is a highly deserving recipient of the prestigious Schwarzman Scholars award.”

Interim Dean Glenn Chambers of MSU Honors College highlighted Syed's achievements: “Mustafa’s academic achievements and entrepreneurial successes showcase the ambition found across campus.” He added that the Distinguished Student Awards Office supports students like Syed in pursuing such accolades.

Professor Morgan Shipley also commended Syed: “Mustafa Syed models Spartans Will. He is an engaged scholar, an entrepreneurial success story, and a model human being.”

Syed graduated from Michigan State University in 2024 with a degree in religious studies from the College of Arts and Letters. His tenure as president of the MSU Entrepreneurship Association was marked by significant growth in entrepreneurship on campus.

Shipley further described Syed's leadership style: “Gracious in his actions and intentional in his pursuits, Mustafa leads with compassion...He is, in short, an inspiration...as a catalyst for the sense of possibility that dwells in each of us.”

Born in Britain to Pakistani parents and now residing in America, Syed values his multicultural background as vital for fostering global collaboration. His focus lies on uniting communities through entrepreneurship, especially within consumer technology.

As founder of REZA — a footwear brand incorporating glass fiber — Syed holds three design patents. His expertise spans product development and supply chain management across Shenzhen, Guangzhou, and Taipei, enabling REZA to distribute products nationwide and internationally.

Through participation in the Schwarzman Scholars Program, Syed aims to apply his experience with U.S. and Chinese startups to enhance his understanding of China's economy while building relationships with industry leaders.

Prior to attending MSU, Syed completed his high school education at Skyline High School in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

This article first appeared on the Distinguished Student Awards Office website.