Incoming freshman learn about Texas A&M at Qatar’s culture and traditions
Published Sep 05, 2023Texas A&M University at Qatar, a Qatar Foundation partner university, welcomed its incoming freshman students during Aggie Life 101, a three-day orientation program.
Aggie Life 101 is a series of seminars, workshops and activities designed to teach students about Texas A&M and its unique traditions, as well as what it takes to succeed at a world-renowned engineering institution.
Students and graduates of Texas A&M University are called “Aggies” and that tradition continues at Texas A&M’s branch campus in Doha. The orientation showcased the opportunities Texas A&M at Qatar offers to students to help them become engineering leaders — from social clubs and activities to transformative educational experiences, such as international service-learning trips, study abroad and undergraduate research.
The current students who acted as ambassadors of the university participated in various training sessions earlier in the year. Orientation leaders managed the various sessions and also conducted tours of the Texas A&M Engineering Building. This year, several students from the main campus at College Station, Texas, also participated in the Aggie Life 101 sessions at Texas A&M University at Qatar.
Danyah Hendawi ’26 said that it was an immensely rewarding experience to be an orientation leader.
“It was really special to be part of the group that was welcoming new students to Texas A&M at Qatar,” Hendawi said. “New students are nervous, and excited and eager to know what their future holds. Having been in that shoes when we were freshman, it really was a heartening experience to lend them the support that our seniors once gave us.”
She added, “Learning about the cultures and traditions during the training at College Station was definitely a unique experience. The Yell Leaders, our interactions with Brigadier General Joe Ramirez Jr., the vice president for student affairs, and the different sessions we attended: all of it has helped us gain key skills that we will carry forward in our lives.”
Dr. Ryan McLawhon ’03, assistant dean for academic services and student affairs at Texas A&M at Qatar, welcomed the Class of 2027 to campus. He also introduced the Aggie Core Values and the Aggie Code of Honor, two driving principles that set apart an Aggie education.
Miguel Angel Treviño, director of student affairs at Texas A&M at Qatar, said, “Texas A&M is committed to developing engineering leaders in the State of Qatar. Our commitment extends beyond conventional engineering education, encompassing a holistic approach that integrates our comprehensive core curriculum and vibrant student life programs. The educational framework at Texas A&M University at Qatar is thoughtfully crafted to align with Texas A&M's fundamental principles of respect, excellence, leadership, loyalty, integrity and selfless service. We are thrilled to extend a warm welcome to these incoming Aggies, as we embark on the journey to equip them with the skills needed to address the challenges that lie ahead in our society.”