Shows
GUQ SpeaksStudent Life Core: Voices from Universities Across Qatar | #035 (Arabic Special)Join us for our second Arabic special episode featuring students from both public and private universities across Doha, Qatar. Despite being in a relatively small country, discover how student experiences vary dramatically between campuses, creating worlds of difference. Our guests include Nour Alseaf from Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar, Jana Al Farra from University of Doha for Science and Technology, and Al Hanouf Al Shammari from the College of Pharmacy at Qatar University, this episode is hosted by Remas Alhawari from GU-Q (IPOL’26)Through authentic student voices, we explore the diverse landscape of university li...2025-07-011h 06GUQ SpeaksFaculty vs. Feedback: A RateMyProfessor Special | #034As part of our ongoing summer series, we’re handing the mic to the professors and the students. In this episode, Dr. Dennis McCornac, Dr. Akintunde Akinade, Dr. James Olsen, Dr. Santaiago Garcia Couto, and Dr. Karine Walther read their own RateMyProfessor reviews out loud, unfiltered. Some are kind, others are brutal, and a few are just plain weird. Through it all, they reflect on what it means to teach, to be seen (and sometimes misunderstood), and how feedback even when anonymous shapes the classroom experience. It’s candid, funny, and surprisingly heartfelt.2025-06-0816 minGUQ SpeaksStudying Abroad: Washington, D.C. in Retrospect | #033As part of our summer series, we're excited to bring you monthly episodes exploring student experiences from around the globe. This month, we dive into the heart of Washington, D.C., through the eyes of Georgetown University Qatar's Class of 2026 students who spent their fall 2024 semester studying abroad at the main campus.Join us as Jay Pacer (International Politics), Tashafee Masoodi (International History), Farkhunda Fazelyar (Culture and Politics), and Mariaa Sorokina (International Economics) sit down to share their unforgettable tales from their exchange semester in Washington, D.C. What makes this conversation even more special is that...2025-05-3048 minGUQ SpeaksSCC Reflections: Advice, Stories and Confessions from '25 | #032As commencement approaches and the Class of 2025 counts down to their graduation day, we're excited to continue our annual tradition of featuring seniors on our podcast. This year, we collaborate with the Senior Class Committee representing the four majors at GU-Q: Zahra Saboorzadeh (IECO), Maytha Al-Shrame (IPOL), Natali Fanik (IHIST), and John Carlos Burog (CULP).Tune in to hear these accomplished seniors answer your thoughtful questions, share valuable advice for the Class of 2029, and reveal entertaining senior confessions featured from our Instagram page.We say goodbye to our graduating seniors and extend our warmest wishes...2025-05-0453 minGUQ SpeaksAftermath of the Referendum: A New Era of Student Politics at GU-Q?| #031In the aftermath of the most contentious SGA amendment in recent memory, this episode revisits the referendum that ultimately led to the amendment’s reversal. But was that the real victory?Join Ibrahim Absar and Kim Chen in an unfiltered conversation recorded shortly after the referendum results were released. They unpack not just the vote itself, but the deeper issues of student representation, communication failures, and the disconnect between SGA and the student body.Why did this amendment provoke such strong reactions? Why was the referendum the only response? An...2025-04-1945 minGUQ SpeaksSGA Presidential Debate: Unpacking Promises Before the Polls | #030In this unexpected and fast-tracked episode, we respond to an urgent request from the SGA to help answer student-submitted questions that couldn't be addressed during the presidential debate held during lunch hour on Tuesday, April 15th, 2025. Recorded the very same day and released just hours before polls open, this special episode dives deep into the manifestos of the four presidential candidates.Hosted by Nagla Abdelhady, the 2024–2025 SGA President (Class of '25), the episode features insightful responses to your questions by the candidates vying for the presidency: Kayan H. Al-Mousawi (Class of '26), Ali Nasser (Class of '26), Yo...2025-04-1523 minGUQ SpeaksEid Diaries: Narratives from Around the World | #029Eid Mubarak, everyone! We present this episode as a Eid special, and we hope you enjoy it! Join us in our conversation about diverse Eid experiences from around the globe, spanning from the US to Bangladesh, with four GU-Q students: Ranneme Abu-Hajar (Class of '27), Adeena Hossain (Class of '27), Shyryn Nurlybek (Class of '27), with our host Shahd El-Said (Class of '26).During this conversation, we delve deeper into the differences and similarities between each country in celebrating Eid. It's a great way for us to bond as a Muslim community and exchange experiences!2025-03-3028 minGUQ SpeaksProtecting Democracy: SGA on the Amendment Dispute | #028This episode comes at a pivotal moment in GU-Q's history, marking the first time a call for a referendum has been made. On March 18, 2025, the student body received an email from the Student Government Association (SGA) informing them of new constitutional amendments. These amendments sparked division among students, further fueled by growing hostility toward the SGA. What does this mean for our democracy?This episode's questions were submitted by you through our Instagram page and are presented by Ali Nasir (Class of '26). Representing the student body is Noor Panah (Class of '28), while representing the SGA...2025-03-2454 minGUQ SpeaksEducation City & Us: A Promise Fulfilled? | #027 (Arabic Special Edition)Welcome to our first episode in Arabic, where we explore Education City as both a project and a mission to educate the Qatari youth since its establishment in 1997.This episode is brought to you by Moza Al-Hajri (IECO '26), Ahmed Al-Kuwari (CULP '23), and Leen Al-Thani (IPOL '28), who discuss what Education City means to them and whether it has fulfilled its promise of providing better education.Tune in and let us know what other topics you would like us to explore in Arabic!مرحبًا بكم في أولى حلقاتنا باللغة العربية، حيث اكتشف المدينة التعليمية كمشروع ورسالة تهدف إلى تثقيف الشباب القطري منذ تأسيسها في عام 1997. تقدَّم لكم هذه الحلقة من قبل موزة الهاجري (IECO '26)، أحمد الكواري (CULP '23)، ولين آل ثاني (IPOL '28)، حيث يناقشون ما تعنيه المدينة التعليمية بالنسبة لهم وما إذا كانت قد أوفت بوعدها في تقديم تع2025-03-091h 00GUQ SpeaksSyria's Next Chapter: A Conversation with Professor Mehran Kamrava | #026After the fall of the Assad regime's 54-year dictatorship, Syria begins the next chapter. Many questions have surfaced around the fall of the regime and how the Syrian state will rebuild and interact with Syrian society and foreign actors.Bayan Kayali (Class 26) discusses these questions with Professor Mehran Kamrava to understand a Political Scientist's reading of developments in Syria. As students of the School of Foreign Service at GU-Q, located in the midst of the region's turmoil, we believe it is our duty to critically analyze and reflect on...2025-02-2135 minGUQ SpeaksBehind the Gazette: Understanding Voices of our Community | #025Our last episode of 2024 is brought to you by Sama Alissa (CULP ’27) and Jannah ElGamal (IHIST ’27), both members of the GU-Q Gazette. With the gazette's popularity growing, particularly due to its controversial pieces, Jannah explores her role as an author in our community. How does she choose her topics? Where does she begin her craft? What are the larger implications of publication?Join us to understand the behind-the-scenes workings of our community platform at GU-Q!2024-12-2534 minGUQ SpeaksVoices from Sudan: Dismantling Myths About the Current Crisis | #024In a world infested with numbers and statistics, finding the human side of conflict can feel overwhelming. This episode dives deeper, offering nuanced, personal perspectives that go beyond the headlines—stories that bring empathy and humanity to the forefront of the Sudanese Crisis.In the face of the devastating reality in Sudan, stories of resilience and hope demand to be heard. Join us as Aya Ahmed (SFS'27) and Noon ElSharif (SFS'27), Sudanese students at GU-Q, share deeply personal perspectives on the ongoing conflict. This isn’t just news—it’s their...2024-11-2752 minGUQ SpeaksTurning the Page: A New Era of GU-Q Speaks | #023In this episode, we turn the page to a new era of GU-Q Speaks, diving into what’s next for our podcast this academic year.
What can listeners expect from this new chapter? How are we planning to tackle bigger topics and expand our reach? And how can YOU be a part of shaping the future of GUQ Speaks?
Tune in as we discuss our goals, upcoming ideas, and invite you to share your thoughts through polls on Instagram and Spotify.
Join us on this journey, and enjoy the episode!2024-10-2307 minGUQ Speaks365 Days Later: A Human Perspective on the Genocide | #022Get a unique, deeply personal perspective on the experience of being Gazan during an all out genocide as the Israeli genocidal campaign in Gaza reaches its one year mark today.
Join Masa Qaoud (SFS-Q '28), a GUQ freshman who lived the genocide in all its forms, and Ahmed Zayed (SFS-Q '25), a GUQ student who had to observe helplessly as his family underwent the genocide. From the smallest memories to the biggest tragedies, Masa and Ahmed dive into their personal experiences as Gazans, their thoughts and feelings, and their hopes for and from the community.2024-10-081h 20GUQ SpeaksHoyas in Retrospect: Senior Reflections on Life at GU-Q | #021
Join a lively group of Georgetown University in Qatar seniors as they candidly discuss their college journey. From academic challenges to cultural discoveries, these Hoyas share their most memorable experiences and insights gained over four years in Doha. Hear firsthand accounts of how GU-Q has shaped their perspectives and prepared them for the future. Whether you're a prospective student, current Hoya, or curious listener, this episode offers an authentic glimpse into student life at Georgetown's Qatar campus.
2024-09-121h 40GUQ SpeaksWomen as Change-Makers: From Doha to Washington D.C. | #020In this episode of GU-Q Speaks, we shine a spotlight on the powerful role of women as change-makers. What does it mean to be a woman driving change in today’s world? How do the cultural contexts of Qatar and Washington influence their paths, challenges, and triumphs?
We are thrilled to feature three incredible women from the recent DC women’s trip hosted by Kaltham Al Suabey (Class of 2024):
Prof. Maryam Alsada, a Postdoctoral Fellow at GU-Q with expertise in Historical Anthropology, Women and Gender in the Middle East, and hist...2024-08-0232 minGUQ SpeaksStudying Abroad: Student Experiences in Italy and Washington, D.C. | #019The long-awaited Italy vs. Washington, D.C. conversation is finally coming to light. With many of our rising juniors preparing to embark on their study abroad opportunities and the return of fall and spring exchange students to GU-Q, it is time to discuss the most popular question regarding study abroad decisions: Villa Le Balze in Italy or GU's main campus in Washington, D.C.?
Both of these options can be covered by financial aid, unlike other personal destinations like London or Korea. This makes the decision solely based on personal interest and opportunity.
This conversation...2024-06-2736 minGUQ SpeaksRhodes, Research & Beyond: Undergraduate Opportunities at GU-Q | #018In this episode, we discuss research opportunities from the lens of both the GU-Q administration and the student body.
What is research? What are the research opportunities at GU-Q? How do students unlock the doors of academia? What is the undergraduate student research experience like?
All these questions and more are answered as we hear from Asma Shakeel (class of 2024) an IHIST major and the winner of the competitive international students Rhodes scholarship for graduate school. Asma is a dedicated researcher who has an interest in creating a historical archive regarding Christian missionaries in Kashmir...2024-06-0249 minGUQ SpeaksZCZP Unveiled: Exploring Peace and Conflict Realities | #017In this episode, we unveil the Zones of Peace Zones of Conflict program offered at GU-Q and its development after the COVID-19 era.
What is the purpose of this program? What are the student experiences on these trips? How do students get admitted to this experience? Who gets to decide the location and the conflict?
All these questions and more are answered as we hear from Riwaj Khatiwada (class of 2025) from the spring 2023 trip to Nepal and Ayet Bouhajeb (class of 2024) from the fall of 2023 trip to South Africa. The host for this episode, Remas...2024-05-0851 minGUQ SpeaksCountdown to Commencement: GU-Q Seniors' on their next stage | #016As graduation approaches, and we bid farewell to the class of 2024, we thought it only appropriate to present a graduation special to properly celebrate our amazing seniors. This episode features a conversation between seniors from all four majors offered at GU-Q.
Listen to Ayet, Zlata, Omar, and Meerna as they reflect on their time at GU-Q and share their plans, fears, and hopes for the next stage in their lives. Whether you are a freshman or a rising senior, this episode offers a beautiful representation of what it is like to be a GU-Q student, encompassing all the challenges...2024-04-2359 minGUQ SpeaksBeginning of the End: Student Voices on the Closure of Texas A&M at Qatar | #015This episode comes in light of the unfortunate news regarding the closure of Texas A&M University in Qatar. On February 8, 2024, the Board of Regents of the Texas A&M University System voted to shut down their branch in Qatar. Over the last two decades, Qatar Foundation has worked relentlessly to provide a world-class education through various American universities on Qatari soil.
The real reason behind this abrupt withdrawal from the Middle East remains a mystery. Join us as we hear from Saad Amin and Muhammad bin Mughees, two Texas A&M who give their first-hand accounts...2024-04-1632 minGUQ SpeaksFood for Thought: Prof. Mysti Rudd's Creative Path in Academia | #014Join us in Episode 14, where Professor Mysti Rudd delves deeper into her field of interest: creative writing, and how she discovered her passion for this field.
Tune in as we explore the intersections of writing research and practice with an educator who is shaping the future of composition studies. Professor Rudd's insights promise to inspire educators, students, and anyone interested in the transformative power of writing.
We hope you enjoy the episode and invite you to leave suggestions for more professors you would like to hear from.2024-04-0220 minGUQ SpeaksRamadan Diaries: Narratives from Around the World | #013Ramadan Mubarak, everyone! We present this episode as a Ramadan special, and we hope you enjoy it!
Join us in our conversation about the diverse Ramadan experiences from around the globe, spanning from Uzbekistan to France, with four GU-Q students.
During this conversation, we delve deeper into the differences and similarities between each country and its practices during the holy month. It's a great way for us to bond as a Muslim community and exchange experiences!2024-03-1931 minGUQ SpeaksGU-Q Admissions: Inside The Decision Room With Joe Hernandez | #012Join us in Episode 12 as Assistant Dean of Admissions, Joseph Hernandez, takes us behind the scenes of the GU-Q admissions process.
Discover what makes an application stand out and the key factors the admissions team looks for. With Joseph's expertise, we delve into the strategies that can transform any application. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the secrets of college admissions.
Tune in to gain valuable insights directly from an admissions insider!2024-03-0545 minGUQ SpeaksCreative Horizons: Illuminating GU-Q's Student Artists | #011As part of our mission to exchange students' campus experiences and highlight their successes, this episode features three creative individuals dedicated to pursuing their artistic endeavors.
Our first guest is Zaina Khalil, a member of the class of 2024, who utilizes the art form of embroidery, specifically Palestinian tatreez, as a means of both resistance and self-expression. This episode also features Mohamed Albulushi, from the class of 2026, fully immersed in the world of Arabic calligraphy. Lastly, Basil Albalushi, class of 2027, shares his experiences in the realm of digital art.
Throughout...2024-02-1324 minGUQ SpeaksStudying Abroad: Student Experiences in London and DC | #010With the opening of applications for studying abroad and the return of fall exchange students to GU-Q, we found it only appropriate to delve deep into student experiences during exchange year programs.
This conversation features Raed Asad, class of 2025, and his experience studying abroad on the GU main campus in Washington, DC, as well as Kaltham AlSubaey, class of 2024, and her experience studying abroad in SAOS in London.
In this episode, we delve deeper into the advantages and disadvantages of both destinations, which can, in turn, hopefully help you make an informed decision for your study abroad experience or simply...2024-01-2933 minGUQ SpeaksMastering the Podium: Luigi Alcaneses & GU-Q Debates Week | #009We are kicking off the Spring 2024 semester with a conversation featuring Luigi Alcaneses, a graduate student pursuing a Ph.D. in Economics at the University of the Philippines Diliman. We were fortunate to have Luigi visit GU-Q as part of the Georgetown Debate week during the Fall 2023 semester.
In this episode, as a WUDC finalist, Luigi shares his rich experience in competitive debating and public speaking. Join us as we delve deeper into the secrets of mastering the art of public speaking and argumentation.
We hope you enjoy this episode and stay tuned for more exciting episodes coming your way!2024-01-1633 minGUQ SpeaksTightrope of Law: Wadie Said on Gaza’s Legal Struggle| #008Bayan Kayyali an International Politics major interviews Professor of Law Wadie Said for insight on the implications of human rights within international law specifically within the context of the current international law violations committed against the people of Gaza as well as the limitations of US federal law in protecting activism rights.
Join us as we delve deeper into this intricate matter and question the role of law in change making.
We hope you enjoy it!2023-12-1224 minGUQ SpeaksBeyond Borders: Studying Abroad at GU-Q | #007As a continuation of our student-led episodes, this episode features host Maryam Al-Ansari and distinguished students Marianna Pereira de Souza and Minahil Mahmud.
Join us for an enlightening conversation as they explore their experiences at GU-Q as international students, embracing diverse cultures, and creating a sense of belonging in a new environment.
We hope you enjoy it!
2023-11-2828 minGUQ SpeaksFootball Banter: Ahmed and Basil's Pitchside Punditry| #006Ahmed Ahmed, from the class of 2026, and Basil Al-Balushi, representing the class of 2027, bring you this exclusive episode on the universal game of football.
Explore the latest happenings in football as we dissect the 2023 Ballon d’Or ceremony, unravel the drama of the most recent El Clássico, look into the Benzema controversy, and finally end with a very special game between the two hosts.
Join us as we delve deeper into the world of footballing controversies and speculations and give our two cents on it.
Please follow us on GUQ_Speaks on bot...2023-11-1437 minGUQ SpeaksFaith in Focus: MSA conversations with Imam Hendi | #005This episode marks the beginning of our student-led episodes featuring a collaboration with the GU-Q Muslim Students Association. The MSA has an insightful conversation with Imam Hendi, the United States’ first full-time Muslim Chaplain based at a university.
The episode begins with the Imam's perspective on the ongoing genocide of Palestinians in Palestine. We then delve deeper into his personal experiences and how they shaped his character. The episode concludes with us asking the Imam for advice about certain issues facing Muslims in the 21st century.
Join us as we explore the unique perspectives of Imam Hendi and his views on...2023-11-0239 minGUQ SpeaksPalestine, My Issue: Ahmed Zayed’s Call for Action | #004This episode sheds light on the current situation in the Gaza Strip, featuring Ahmed Zayed, a survivor of the 2006 and 2009 wars in Gaza, sharing his perspective. We explore Georgetown University's response to the ongoing crisis and its implications in the larger context of the wider community.
This podcast serves as a reminder for students to question, reflect, and contemplate global issues.
Join us as we delve deeper into the essence of the Palestinian struggle against Israeli occupation throughout the years.
Below is the link to the compilation of references and resources mentioned in this episode:
https://shorturl.at/mAF35
Please...2023-10-1747 minGUQ SpeaksCourage to Thrive: Dr. John Wright's Journey | #003From humble beginnings to facing adversity, Dr. Wright recounts his life's journey with GUQ speaks. In this episode, we delve into the lessons he's learned along the way, the people he's interacted with, and the moments that shaped him.
This podcast episode is a testament to the power of resilience and the beauty of humility. We often see Dr. Wright walking in the atrium with a smile on his face.
We believe it's a reminder that even in the face of life's most daunting challenges, we have the capacity...2023-09-2848 minGUQ SpeaksChampioning the Hoya Spirit: Benjamin Kurian's Story | #002Introducing our inaugural guest, Benjamin Kurian , a distinguished alumnus and former Student Government Association president at GU-Q.
Join us for a nostalgic conversation about his GU-Q journey, stepping out of comfort zones, the power of collaboration, community impact, and the rewards of being proactive.
We hope you enjoy!
2023-09-1430 minGUQ SpeaksWelcome to GUQ Speaks, The podcast | #001Hello Hoyas!
We are super excited to launch this new podcast titled GUQ Speaks. In this episode, we introduce the team behind it all, discuss what you can expect, delve into our motives for making this decision, and express our general excitement about the potential of this podcast.
Thank you for listening. :)
Please consider following us on our Instagram page @GUQ_Speaks to stay updated. 2023-09-0602 min