LAU gave a warm welcome to the largest-ever cohort of the U.S.-Middle East Partnership Initiative-(MEPI) Tomorrow’s Leaders Program, comprising 30 undergraduate scholars. The program is designed to provide higher education opportunities to high school seniors from under-resourced backgrounds who demonstrate strong academic capacity and leadership potential. Open to young men and women who would otherwise be unable to attend university, candidates can apply from Algeria, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, Syria, Tunisia, Yemen, and the West Bank. Palestinian applicants residing in a third country with legal residency status are also eligible.

The students took part in a two-day orientation that introduced them to university life, the scholarship’s expectations, and the vibrant university community on both LAU campuses where they will live, learn, and grow.

Congratulating the students on earning the scholarship through a rigorous selection process, Interim Vice President for Student Development and Enrollment Management Raed Mohsen encouraged them to make the most of their university experience by joining clubs and being open to all the opportunities that LAU and the TL program will offer.

MEPI Coordinator at the US Embassy in Beirut Elizabeth Penido reminded the students that success is a journey marked by persistence and determination. “There will be challenges along the way, but aim to learn from them and never lose sight of your goals,” she advised. “Support one another, ask for help when you need it, and offer help when you can,” she added.

Highlighting one of the program’s most distinctive features—its rich variety—Senior Director of International Services and Programs Dina Abdul Rahman noted how the scholars’ different backgrounds and experiences create a unique environment for learning, cultural exchanges, nuanced understanding, and collaboration that can empower the next generation of leaders.

Throughout the two days, the newcomers met members of the LAU MEPI-TL team, faculty mentors, and alumni, and learned about the program’s requirements, leadership opportunities, and community service activities. The sessions also helped the students connect as they set expectations about academic and campus life.

Current students Lana Matar and Maram Al Haj also shared their experiences with the new cohort, offering practical tips and advice to help the newcomers feel at home at LAU, and navigate their journey as tomorrow’s leaders.

The orientation also allowed the new scholars to hear from TL alumni Abdulrahman Al Zaatari and Aya Saleh, who reflected on their experiences and the impact that the scholarship had on their personal and professional growth. Expressing his gratitude to the program, Al Zaatari encouraged the new cohort to fully embrace the opportunities ahead: “I want to urge you to embrace the adventure, take initiative, volunteer your time, and participate in competitions, events, and programs. Show the world what you are made of. Work hard and truly enjoy this beautiful blend of minds and souls,” he said, cautioning the newcomers that “the days will pass quickly, and you will eventually miss it all.”