Over a three-week period earlier this month, rising seniors from National University of Science and Technology (NUST) Oman participated in the Global Scholar Program at the University of South Carolina. During their time at USC, students from Oman worked in the Molinaroli College of Engineering and Computing’s research laboratories and engaged with faculty and students, while also exploring the Columbia metropolitan area.
“The students had a rewarding experience, both academically and culturally, and we are proud to support the continued excellence of NUST’s programs,” says Molinaroli College of Engineering and Computing Dean Hossein Haj-Hariri.
USC and NUST’s partnership encourage an exchange of experience and talent between both schools. Officials arranged the visit to build the relationship between the universities and give students unique engineering opportunities.
Two of the students participating were civil engineering major Estabraq Yasser Habib Al Balushi and chemical engineering major Haitham Abdullah Mubarik Al Sinani.
Estabraq Yasser Habib Al Balushi
Q: What inspired you to participate in the Global Scholar Program?
“I wanted to experience the United States and meet people of different backgrounds because we don’t have as much variety in Oman.”
Q: What did it mean to be selected to represent NUST and Oman?
“I feel that if the university [NUST] didn't see my potential, I wouldn't have be chosen. I'm grateful that they saw that potential and that I could represent Oman and the NUST.”
Q: What did you learn during your time in USC’s engineering and computing labs?
“I saw a lot of software that we don't use, so it's a good opportunity for me to go back and have knowledge of something that my country doesn't focus on. I've also seen different engineering sectors because one of my plans is possibly getting a master's degree in aerospace engineering.”
Q: Was surprised you most about your time in Columbia?
“My perspective changed because social media gave the impression that people [in the United States] were rude and unfriendly. But it was the opposite. People are friendly and always willing to help. Now I can tell people [in Oman] that social media was lying.”
Q: What differences stood out between Oman and South Carolina?
“In Oman, I'm used to having places within a two-to-five-minute walk. Here, it's more of a 10-to 15-minute walk, but I like the open spaces.”
Q: Did you have a favorite place to eat or shop in Columbia?
“Chipotle was amazing. I also did a lot of shopping, and Sephora was my favorite store.”
Q: Would you consider returning to USC for your master’s degree?
“I have a list of universities in other countries that I’m considering, but coming to USC was great. I like the environment and educational system here, and I was impressed by the research.”
Haitham Abdullah Mubarik Al Sinani
Q: You first earned a degree in marketing and economics. What inspired you to pursue chemical engineering?
“I didn't find any chemical engineering programs in Oman at the time, but I eventually decided to go for my passion.”
Q: What surprised you the most about the United States?
“I’ve visited many countries, especially in Europe, but people in the United States were social and kind, which surprised me. They will also try to help you as much as possible.”
Q: What differences stood out between Oman and the United States?
“One thing is the variety of people and mentalities. It’s positive because in our country we have one culture and one mentality, which can narrow your thinking. There are many nationalities here and they are friendly and collaborative with each other.
“I was also surprised about the research, especially in chemical engineering in areas such as batteries and catalysts. It goes much deeper than in Oman. Instead of research coming from industry, the research here is funded by federal agencies.”
Q: What did it mean to represent NUST at USC through the Global Scholar Program?
“It was a once in a lifetime opportunity. I read an article from our university when I first learned about this scholarship for students to go to USC. I didn’t think much about it at the time, but the more research I did about USC, I realized how strong the university is in academics and research. This program has exceeded my expectations.”
Q: Would you consider returning the USC for graduate school?
“I'm planning to register for the Ph.D. program because I like this place and want to be part of the research. I want to be part of this university because it feels like family.”