For most senior students and fresh graduates in Lebanon, prestigious international scholarships for graduate studies are highly sought after, as they can transform one’s academic and professional path significantly, offering a global perspective to complement their undergraduate degree.

Armed with a rich resumé of impressive extracurricular leadership experiences, six LAU alumni were awarded the Chevening Scholarship, a testament to their “passion, ideas and influence to provide the solutions and leadership needed to create a better future,” according to the scholarship’s website. The grant, sponsored by the UK Government, funds one-year master’s degrees in the UK, including tuition, flights and board.

Another highly competitive grant, the US Fulbright Scholarship, was awarded to three LAUers who embarked on their graduate studies in the US this year. In addition to covering tuition, the scholarship equips them with the necessary leadership skills to help develop their home countries upon their return.  

The scholars were supported throughout the application process by the Office of International Services and Programs (ISP), which actively pursues opportunities with several embassies in Lebanon to promote exchange, study abroad and scholarship opportunities.

In the following, the nine scholars describe the motivation behind their choice of a graduate degree, how their experiences at LAU—the flagship Simulation Models, study abroad opportunities, the Middle East Partnership Initiative–Tomorrow’s Leaders Program and the Honors Program were cited— helped develop their leadership skills and led to their selection into the esteemed programs.

Shady Abi Fares (BA; BS ’23)

Master of Science in Development Management, London School of Economics (LSE)

During the 2019 nationwide uprising and the subsequent economic, social, and political crises, I became interested in development studies, especially as I witnessed the government’s indifference to the worsening inequalities. I wanted to understand the root causes of inequality as well as the economic, social, and political dimensions of development. This led me to pursue a degree that would provide me with the multidisciplinary expertise required to address the increasing poverty and inequity in Lebanon.

I selected the MSc in Development Management at LSE because it matches my academic interests and career aspirations. Academically, the program’s approach to understanding development aligns with my background in both economics and politics, offering the tools to analyze poverty and inequality in Lebanon and the broader Arab region. From a practical viewpoint, it combines theoretical knowledge with practical development experience through a consultancy project with an international organization, which entails essential hands-on skills for designing and managing development projects. I believe this program will pave the way for me to contribute to national poverty-reduction strategies and overall economic development policy in Lebanon in the short term.

My academic background and extracurricular involvements at LAU certainly bolstered my application for the Chevening Scholarship. Double majoring in economics and political science and international affairs during a transformative period in Lebanon broadened my perspective considerably on development issues. But the most significant asset in my application was my four-year involvement with the university’s Simulation Models, which I eventually had the privilege of leading as secretary general in 2022–2023.

This experience not only expanded my understanding of economic, social, and political

issues, but also played a pivotal role in shaping my professional and personal development. Thanks to enriching interactions with the hundreds of LAU students, staff, and alumni over the past four years, I was able to demonstrate the qualities that the Chevening Scholarship looks for in candidates. I am particularly grateful to the LAU Simulation Models staff members who supported my application, directly and indirectly, and to the LAU Chevening Alumni who have blazed this trail for me.

Balsam Gharib (BA ’22)

Master of Science in Social Data Science, University of Exeter

Data is increasingly central to nearly every field, yet its potential is not fully harnessed in the social sciences. This pushed me to pursue the MSc in Social Data Science at the University of Exeter, a unique program that offers advanced training in data analytics with a focus on its application to societal issues. Professionally, I hope this program will serve as a stepping stone for future research opportunities, allowing me to explore the complexities of political economies through data-driven methodologies.

While the academic curriculum at LAU and the insights from instructors were deeply enriching, the highlight of my experience was the chance to grow outside the classroom. LAU offers numerous opportunities, such as capacity-building workshops, leadership programs, and volunteering activities that not only shape one’s character but also prepare students to handle challenging situations with resilience and adaptability. These experiences were crucial to my professional development and played a significant role in helping me secure the Chevening Scholarship.

Maria El Sammak (BA ’18) 

Master of Arts in Conflict, Security and Development, King’s College London

After graduating from LAU, I worked with an international Non-Governmental Organization on their peacebuilding and conflict transformation efforts in Lebanon for several years. This taught me the importance of adopting a holistic approach when it comes to unpacking and addressing a conflict in an attempt to bring about (lasting) peace. Understanding the polarity between development and underdevelopment with a truly postcolonial lens—especially in this part of the world—is fundamental to understanding any conflict. 

With that, I hope that my graduate degree will allow me to engage in conversations on conflict, security and development with a multitude of different profiles, drawing on various international models that could potentially benefit the Lebanese people and help me give back to my community. 

As a political science and international affairs undergraduate at LAU, I had supportive and inspiring professors and lecturers, some of whom I consider my mentors to this day, such as Dr. Bassel Salloukh. Through the Honors Program, the university invited me to challenge myself by completing graduate seminars as part of my BA, which was both an enriching intellectual experience and an entry point to graduate studies. 

Perla Khaled (BA ’23)

Master of Science in Human Rights and Politics, London School of Economics (LSE)

I decided to pursue this degree at LSE because of the critical human rights challenges facing the Middle East, which have influenced my commitment to advocacy and research. LSE’s emphasis on the intersection of human rights, politics and policymaking aligns perfectly with my career aspirations. The university’s comprehensive approach, which combines theoretical and practical aspects of human rights, promises to equip me with the tools to engage in the global human rights discourse and implement diverse strategies in Lebanon and the region. Ultimately, I aim to advocate for marginalized communities and contribute to shaping more inclusive policies in the Middle East.

A degree in political science and international affairs, coupled with a double minor in multimedia journalism and legal studies from LAU, provided me with an interdisciplinary education and a robust foundation to study human rights from various angles. The Honors Program and the Middle East Partnership Initiative Tomorrow’s Leaders Gender Scholar Program (MEPI-TLS) deepened my understanding of gender and social justice issues. Outside the classroom, my leadership role in LAU’s Simulation Models Program and as president of the International Affairs Club strengthened my skills in public speaking, advocacy, and training, all of which are essential for driving change in human rights.

Siham Hleihel (BS ’21)

Master of Science in Public Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine

I hope this program, at one of the UK’s leading public health academic institutions, will provide me with the comprehensive knowledge and skills needed to address the challenges in any community setting and contribute toward achieving the third Sustainable Development Goal: Good Health and Well-being.

Beyond the Merit Scholarship I received at LAU, I thrived in an environment that fostered personal and professional growth. The university’s brilliant instructors and their continuous support were instrumental in making me a confident health professional. I owe a special gratitude to Dr. Hussein Hassan for his unwavering support throughout my application for the Chevening scholarship and his willingness to act as a reference.

I also actively participate in several clubs, serving multiple terms as a member of the Nutrition Club and as vice president of the Palestinian Cultural Club. These experiences enriched my university life and enhanced my networking and leadership skills, providing invaluable hands-on experiences that complemented my academic studies.

In 2021, I graduated from LAU with distinction, earning the Best Senior Study Award in Nutrition. Over the years, my experiences as a dietitian and project coordinator in the humanitarian field deepened my commitment to public health and my community’s wellbeing. I believe that applying to such a prestigious scholarship requires a solid foundation and immense confidence, both of which I gained during my time at LAU.

Farah Haj Amor (BA ’22)

Master of Science in Children’s Psychological Disorders, Cardiff University

The graduate program I chose explores mental health difficulties and neurodevelopmental disorders during childhood in conjunction with various contributing factors, including genetic, neurobiological and social influences. I was drawn to it because it combines two fields that I am deeply passionate about, educational and clinical psychology, and ranks among the top 10 in the UK for its robust research training. I hope to better understand how these mental health disorders manifest in the specific context of Tunisia and the broader MENA region.

At LAU, I had the privilege of taking multiple classes with Dr. Pia Tohme, whose expertise in child and adolescent psychology and work in cross-cultural research was an inspiration. I am also grateful to my instructor, Mr. Daniel Ganama, who later offered me an internship that honed my research skills.

Additionally, I owe a lot to the MEPI-TL Program and the team of mentors, who helped me unlock my potential, develop leadership skills and build purposeful professional goals that can be channeled toward community service. Case in point, while working on my capstone project—a drama therapy initiative for children on the autism spectrum—I found my calling: enhancing Tunisia’s mental health infrastructure.

The minor in performing arts at LAU instilled in me a creative approach to working with children and seeking novel ways to make treatment more engaging and personal. I truly believe that the leadership skills I have gained, along with my commitment to social change and academic achievements, significantly contributed to my selection for the Chevening Scholarship.

Sarah Alasmar (BA ’23)

Master of Public Policy, the University of Central Florida

Coming from Lebanon, a country where policymaking is often performative and accountability elusive, I have seen firsthand how the absence of effective governance can cost lives. My research focuses on the Beirut Port explosion, not only as a national tragedy but as a blueprint for what happens when systems fail. I intend to use it as a case study to explore governance breakdowns in fragile and transitional states, and how evidence-based policymaking can serve as a tool for justice, not just bureaucracy.

My experience at LAU was foundational to my Fulbright selection. I majored in Political Science and International Affairs, supported by MEPI–TL and a scholarship from the Center for Lebanese Studies.

Through MEPI, I explored gender in the Arab world and participated in a podcast, which sparked my passion for public discourse. In 2022–2023, I served on the Student Council during the dollarization of tuition, a challenging time that taught me a lot about leadership and student advocacy. Thanks to the Office of International Services and Programs, I had the opportunity to study politics, media, and communication at the University of Helsinki through the Erasmus grant, gaining an overview of how systems function in some of the most developed countries.

Studying on the Beirut campus also helped me step outside my bubble and build lifelong connections with peers and faculty who continue to support me. A moment I’ll never forget is receiving my Fulbright acceptance letter on the day of my graduation. It felt like everything LAU had prepared me for came full circle.

Youssef Dakramanji (BS ’23)

Master of Science in Marketing Research and Analytics, Michigan State University

I chose this master’s because I believe marketers must not only be creative but also analytically rigorous in a world increasingly driven by data and AI. The program is helping me build on the skills I need to deliver insights that truly move the needle.

Professionally, I hope to grow into a leader who bridges the gap between data science and marketing strategy, empowering businesses to make smarter, more human-centered decisions.

During my time at LAU, I took advantage of every opportunity the university had to offer. Thanks to the International Services and Programs Office (ISP), for example, I was able to spend a transformative semester at NEOMA Business School in France. I also immersed myself in extracurricular activities, serving as the Hult Prize Campus Director, tutoring in Statistics and English, and sitting on the Student Advisory Committee to the dean. These experiences culminated in my receiving the President’s Award at commencement. Above all, I believe they shaped me into a strong candidate for a Fulbright Scholarship. 

My Fulbright experience continues to be nothing short of extraordinary. I’ve had the honor of meeting the Lebanese ambassador to the United States, speaking at the LAU Centennial Gala at the New York City Public Library, and working as both a research assistant and a teaching assistant at Michigan State. While I am proud of the effort and persistence that brought me here, I know that LAU has played a fundamental role in my achievement.

Tamara Nasr (BArch ’24)

Master of Science in Architecture and a Certificate in Urban Design, University of Cincinnati

Many factors drew me to UC’s College of Design, Architecture, Art, and Planning (DAAP), which is widely recognized as one of the top design schools in the US. Most importantly, it presented an opportunity to deepen my interest in architectural writing, theory, and research while actively engaging in design. I’ve been able to do so by serving as a juror in studio reviews and at the same time exploring design on the urban scale.

The opportunities I embraced at LAU to develop a strong foundation in design, academia, and leadership prepared me well for this selective program and scholarship. I collaborated with the Assistant Chair of the Department of Architecture and Interior Design Roula El-Khoury on publishing an academic article that earned me the Young Researcher Award in the Field of Arts and Humanities at LAU’s 2023 Research Day, an experience that established my potential as an academic writer. Furthermore, presiding over the Beirut Student Council in 2021–2022 gave me insights into the inner workings of academic institutions and helped me grow as a leader.

Thanks to the invaluable mentorship I received from my studio professors over five years of study, I was able to develop a strong portfolio, which helped me secure a summer internship at Steven Holl Architects in New York City in 2025, one of the most prestigious architecture firms worldwide. I also received additional support for this opportunity through the University of Cincinnati’s National Co-op Ambassador Scholarship.

I remain deeply grateful to LAU for shaping my academic and personal development and preparing me to thrive both locally and internationally.