Aina AlObaidan’s CMU-Q journey blended academics and love for Arabic language

Graduating senior Aina AlObaidan has been selected to read the traditional Arabic poem, “Students of Knowledge and Virtue,” at the Class of 2025 graduation ceremony. The Gibran Khalil Gibran poem is recited annually at the CMU-Q graduation ceremony, and the poem reader is selected as the Arabic voice of the class.  

For Aina, this role is deeply personal and represents the tremendous journey she has had at Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar (CMU-Q).   

“Being selected is one of the things I’m most proud of,” Aina shared. “When I first joined, speaking publicly was something I wasn’t very skilled at. To be entrusted with sharing this powerful poem in Arabic, it truly symbolizes how far I’ve come in finding my voice and confidence here.”

Graduating with a degree in Business Administration, Aina also has a passion for the Arabic language and culture. She has earned a minor in Arabic Studies, and throughout her undergraduate years, she has sought out opportunities to enrich her Arabic language skills.

A dedicated member of the Qatari Student Association since she started at CMU-Q, Aina changed focus in her last semester to serve as president of the Hawiya Club. “There are 22 countries where Arabic is the main official language, and this club’s mission is to share the beauty and complexity of these cultures with the CMU-Q community.” 

Reflecting on the poem reading, Aina is honored to represent her class. “It feels like the perfect culmination of my journey, blending my academic achievements with my personal identity and love for the Arabic language.” 

After graduation, Aina is planning for a career in forensic accounting and contributing to Qatar’s ethical business landscape.