Fulfilling Dreams

Since the age of eight, Arsalan Monawar ’12 has had a passion for creative storytelling and video production.

Right after high school, Asalan knew he wanted to pursue a degree in marketing to begin his journey in video production. He grew fond of sales and marketing after taking a class in his senior year.

After a teacher suggested Arsalan investigate Mount Mercy University, he came to visit campus and fell in love with the community. Arsalan also liked the ability to commute from his home, also in Cedar Rapids, to campus easily.

Arsalan loved being able to get real-life learning experiences and case studies in his courses.

“We had entrepreneurs come in and it really sparked my enthusiasm to hear what's possible outside," said Arsalan. "That really helped me understand what I could do in the future.”

Anne King was Arsalan’s advisor and instructor during his time at Mount Mercy. She knew how passionate Arsalan was about business and entrepreneurship and encouraged him to expand his network.

“Anne really helped me get in touch with a lot of like business owners around the area and create those lasting memories and connections that really helped me figure out what I want to do," shared Arsalan.

Arsalan is very grateful for the connections made between himself and his professors. Dr. Ayman Amer specifically was a large help to Arsalan in understanding business economics and what it takes to start your own business.

“To this day, I can reach out to my professors, and they reach out to me and see what I've been up to," said Arsalan. "I know a lot of them have since moved on to other careers, but we still had that Mount Mercy link.”

Arsalan started his own production company in 2015 with his wife. Monawar Studios, located in Marion, is where they create and curate content for small businesses, corporations, and nonprofits.

"To this day, I can reach out to my professors, and they reach out to me and see what I've been up to."

-Arsalan Monawar '12 

“Going back to the case studies done in classes, we understand how to work with companies and tell their stories," Arsalan shared. "That storytelling aspect really grew from coming to Mount Mercy.”

Arsalan is a business owner and entrepreneur and therefore his schedule can vary day-to-day. During busy production times they’re filming and editing nonstop.

“Typically, my day starts when I wake up at 4:00 am, because that's my creative zone. That's when I can work and focus on things," said Arsalan.

Arsalan’s advice to current students is to not put too much pressure on yourself.

“Allow yourself to figure out what you want to do and be kind to yourself," said Arsalan. "Putting more pressure on yourself is going to create more tension. Start small and just work from there.”

Alongside being a business owner, Arsalan has a YouTube channel and is the host of the podcast and global community The Abundant Desi, which has amassed 40,000+ followers. Here, Arsalan shares his passion and gift for storytelling.

Arsalan is particularly passionate about spreading positivity and speaking out about tough issues like anxiety.

“I am a huge advocate for mental health," shared Arsalan. "It is something that I've struggled with my whole life. I don't like to use the word struggle because it was at first, but now it's my superpower.”