BA student becomes first Innovation Scholar from the Qatar campus

A rising junior in the Business Administration Program has become the first Innovation Scholar at the Qatar campus. Yusufbek Nasriddinov was one of 13 Carnegie Mellon students accepted into the selective program at the main campus’ Swartz Center for Entrepreneurship. Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar is a Qatar Foundation partner university.

During the final two years of their undergraduate studies, Innovation Scholars complete additional coursework in the area of entrepreneurship, as well as networking, mentorship and work experience components.

Serkan Akguc has taught Nasriddinov and served as a faculty mentor. “From the beginning of his time at CMU-Q, Yusufbek was very inquisitive and curious about entrepreneurship. He kept coming to my office to ask questions, wanting to know more and to do more.”

The summer after his first year of studies, Nasriddinov applied for an internship with Qatar-based startup, Snoonu. After hearing the student’s enthusiasm, Hamad Mubarak Al-Hajri, the co-founder of Snoonu, offered to mentor Nasriddinov and guide him through the many facets of running a business.

“I had an amazing summer, doing a one-to-one mentorship,” said Nasriddinov. “Mr. Al-Hajri opened up his business to me, so I could ask questions and learn from many different departments and perspectives.”

Nasriddinov plans to build on his experience during the Innovation Scholar Program: “When I found out about the Innovation Scholars program, I thought if there was only one club or program at CMU to choose from, I would choose this one. I think being in a place where people around you innovate is fundamental to developing as an entrepreneur.”

The Swartz Center for Entrepreneurship offers programs and activities that bring together education, engagement, collaboration and opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs. The Innovation Scholars Program is open to second year students from any school or college at Carnegie Mellon University.