The opportunity to study at Northwestern University emerged at the “perfect time” for one young Qatari student, who has now been able to fulfil his dream of studying to work in the media in his home country.
Jassim al-Ramaihi, who is a member of the inaugural class at Northwestern University in Qatar (NWQ) set to graduate in 2012, explained that following his school education and a gap year, in which he undertook a training programme at a television channel here, he had been exploring the possibility of studying business at UK universities.
However, he then heard about the opening of NWQ and jumped at the prospect of continuing his interest in the media and achieving a “top-class education.”
“The great thing is that Qatar is committed to the development of the media, as is shown by the opening of NWQ,” he said, adding “I was surprised to hear they were coming here, as the education here usually focuses on science, medicine or research, but this shows that Qatar is committed to the media as well.”
Al-Rumaihi explained that he had always wanted to be involved in the media, both because his father has worked in the industry, and also because of the potential of “affecting peoples’ lives.”
Although his primary interest is in the field of sports, he explained that another attractive prospect about the media industry is the fact that it is “always changing,” and he could find himself with different interests and opportunities when he graduates in three years time.
The communications student explained that studying at Qatar Foundation has helped him develop in areas other than education, and the “international society” there has taught him a number of life lessons.
“Meeting so many people from different countries makes you realise that people are not as different as you might think, and that we all have things in common,” he said, adding “I hope this means that we can work together to build a better future.”
Expressing his dissatisfaction at the local press, he said that it “needs to catch up with Al Jazeera.”
The young Qatari also expressed his determination to continue to live and work in Qatar following his graduation, and said “this is my home – I cannot imagine living anywhere else than Qatar.”