Page 3 - Freshmen Welcome Newsletter

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Interview with ADU Chancellor

Prof. Ghassan Aouad

Q1- Please, tell us about yourself and your philosophy of education/what the
main motives were for you to choose education as a career?

The academic world is unquestionably the best place for you if you wish to support
and uplift others. You will be proud of how many students and alumni you have. The
fact that I get to watch students grow into responsible adults inspires me to keep
progressing in my field.

However, I can assure you that my work is not easy. I’m thrilled when I witness the
students’ success in competitions, when they are joyful during graduation ceremonies,
and eventually when I witness them as market leaders.
Prof. Ghassan Aouad
ADU Chancellor
My life’s philosophy is to work hard and be smart, yet that is not enough. You’ll need
the correct temperament, charisma, and, most crucially, the necessary abilities. I
keep teaching everyone that the key to success is having courage of heart along with
leadership, passion, vision, and creativity. Even something as straightforward as making
a cup of coffee should be completed to a high standard.

Q2- As they adjust to life in college, freshmen may confront particular
difficulties. To guarantee a seamless transition into higher education, how
does ADU help and mentor its freshmen students?

It is crucial that high school students become used to the atmosphere of colleges. The
open days are one tactic that ADU employs. Additionally, by demonstrating to freshmen
the expertise of our graduates, we can assist them. Being thoroughly aware of what
they subscribed for is incredibly helpful for students. To learn more about their specific
majors, students from the College of Engineering are sent to the labs. For instance,
cement mixing techniques are introduced to civil engineering students. We ask them
to dress appropriately, as if they were in the field, with helmets and suitable attire.
Particularly during their first year, freshmen require a lot of care. We ought to make an
effort to stress this process of adaptation. I advise first-year students to pay attention
to their seniors and take advice from them.

Q3- ADU is known for its dedication to student success. Could you briefly
describe some of the plans and programs in place to make sure that students
succeed both academically and personally while attending the university?

On the one hand, we have the Academic Success Center. Students who are having
trouble should give it a try. Office hours have been set aside so that students can speak
with faculty members and get their questions answered. They may always consult their
friends and apply their skills.

On the other hand, self-study has never been simpler thanks to the technology of
today, which offers students an extensive selection of tools for understanding difficult
subjects. We also provide counseling services, which are particularly beneficial for
individuals who experience academic stress. The most crucial thing is to motivate pupils
to learn because once someone is motivated, anything is possible for him or her.

Abu Dhabi University | ADU Freshman Guide 23-24