Everybody at Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) shares a common belief in the power of higher education and research to have a positive impact on the development of nations. Doing so also necessitates nurturing already-inquisitive minds and imbuing them with the confidence to apply knowledge and experience beyond the classroom. HBKU alumna Noof Fahad Al-Thani particularly benefited from the university’s commitment to fostering close working relations with its students. Here’s her story.

Noof’s academic journey began with Northwestern University in Qatar (NU-Q), where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Communication with a Minor in Middle East Studies. She complemented her studies with an internship at Qatar National Bank and worked as an English language instructor with Reach Out to Asia. With her time at NU-Q rapidly coming to an end, Noof found herself yearning for further academic exploration. Qatar Foundation's (QF) commitment to excellence and a chance conversation with a personal connection pointed her in HBKU’s direction. 

After hearing about a friend of a friend’s positive experience studying for the CHSS’ Master in Digital Humanities and Societies, Noof sensed an HBKU program that aligned perfectly with her multidisciplinary interests. Confirmation came after she contacted Dr. Amal Al-Malki, with a bold inquiry: "why should I apply to HBKU, and how would it benefit me?" It’s a question Noof regularly reflects upon and is always grateful for the response and encouragement she received. 

Thanks to her conversation with Dr. Al-Malki, Noof gained a deeper understanding of HBKU's dedication to nurturing critical thinkers and contributing to the advancement of Qatar’s knowledge-based economy. She sensed that studying here would be about more than just embarking on the next stage of her professional journey. This was also an opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to her country and carry the honor of promoting HBKU throughout her lifetime. 

Indeed, Noof never stopped asking questions or making suggestions over the course of her studies with HBKU. Another conversation she fondly remembers is her suggestion that mental health services could benefit students struggling with their studies and life on campus, concerns that were acknowledged and addressed by faculty and staff. Noof’s confidence to raise this issue reflects the sense of belonging she immediately felt upon joining HBKU, not to mention the willingness of everybody to support students at every stage of their academic journey. 

One person who particularly helped Noof overcome uncertainties concerning her studies was the CHSS’ Dr. Marc Owen Jones. Having studied two of his courses, she realized her research interests aligned closely with someone who would go on to become her academic advisor. Through a series of weekly meetings, he provided invaluable guidance that significantly shaped Noof’s research and analysis. Indeed, Dr. Marc’s mentorship laid the foundations for an  opportunity to publish with the highly respected Journal of Arabian Studies. 

Noof eventually settled on a research project that focussed on perceptions, particularly those of Qatari women, of social and political issues expressed on Twitter (now known as X). Converting her research into content suitable for the Journal of Arabian Studies nevertheless posed significant challenges. Noof initially felt daunted by the prospect of adapting her work, a task further complicated when she joined the CHSS’ Marketing and PR department in a full-time capacity. Dr Marc’s support was unwavering, and with further encouragement she eventually submitted for a special edition entitled "Reorienting the Gulf: Epistemologies, Intellectual Traditions, and New Approaches."

Since completing her studies and publishing her research, Noof has worked as an analyst within the Chief Executive’s office at the Qatar Investment Authority. This research-intensive role has provided her with countless opportunities to apply experience and knowledge acquired at HBKU. It has also encouraged her to take risks and embark on new endeavors with the potential for success. These include her decision to study for an investment management certificate, a qualification which has enhanced her understanding of the investment field and provided a strong foundation for navigating future career prospects. 

Noof has by no means taken the option of further studies off the table, including pursuit of another master’s degree. With a natural enthusiasm for international relations and geopolitics, two subjects intricately intertwined with her current work, she is confident that an academic qualification in this field will significantly enhance her professional development. As she considers her options, she will no doubt call upon Dr. Marc’s parting advice to “never stop asking questions.” It is an attitude that Noof encourages all students to embrace, particularly those that choose to study with HBKU.