Alumni of The Month

1.  Introduce yourself?

I am one of the young students from Jordan who was honored to be accepted into the University of Jordan after graduating from Al-Salt Secondary School. Before that, I studied at some American schools during middle and high school. After graduating from university, I studied and lived in several countries, including Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, the United States, and Egypt. I completed my Ph.D. in 2011 in the field of public opinion and have worked in various research centers, think tanks, and universities, including Princeton University for two years. I am currently at George Mason University in the United States. I also hold other roles in the academic, research, media, and international fields, such as:

• Founder and Director of the World of Opinions Center for Public Opinion Polls in Kuwait, Jordan, and the United States
• Advisor to UMR Organization – Washington
• Consultant to NGOs within the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC)
• Media writer for Al Jazeera Net, Kuwait News Agency, and others
  
  I have written several books, dozens of research papers, and hundreds of articles on various topics in public opinion and humanitarian work.

2.   Share your fondest memory from your time at Jordan University.

Entering the world of ideas and discussions on Jordanian public affairs in an atmosphere rich with diverse perspectives among dear friends. Sometimes we disagreed, sometimes we agreed.
That's why, when I talk about sampling types in research studies, I often refer to this institution as a place where one can draw samples representing all of Jordan's diversity—of origins, backgrounds, and regions.

3.   In one word, how would you describe Jordan University?

The University of Jordan is: “Inclusive" of all of Jordan.

4.     Explain how your experiences at UJ shaped you?

It helped develop my academic and professional skills. I learned critical thinking, independence, and how to build friendships and relationships in a place that felt like a miniature Jordan, alongside some foreign nationalities.

5.     Discuss what fascinated you about your chosen course of study?

The broad horizons and diversity of ideas, because political science takes you into a wide and interconnected world with all other disciplines.

6.     Offer advice to graduating students preparing to enter the workforce?

The usual advice: Make the most of your time at university. Those days have a great impact on your future skill development. It's important to participate in activities, workshops, and events. Don't hesitate to expand your relationships with peers and professors—you'll see the benefits in the future.

With the AI revolution, beware of becoming stagnant in this ever-changing world. At the same time, enjoy the moments within reason, logic, and ethics.

7.     Reflect on what you wish you had known during your time as a student?

Studying and understanding the experiences of other prestigious international universities.​

8.     Identify the person who has had the greatest impact on your career?

At the University of Jordan, it was Dr. Mohammad Farhan Al-Hiyajneh (may he rest in peace). He would transform the classroom with diverse discussions, whether calm or heated, using a teaching method perfectly suited to the subject of ancient and modern political thought. He listened to students more than he spoke in some sessions—an approach I'll never forget. He left a lasting impression on the art of soliciting opinions, sparking ideas, and truly listening to us.