Summary
This story follows Fatou Sokhna Gueye, an Information Systems student at CMU-Q with a focus on data science and human-computer interaction. It covers her leadership as president of the African Student Association, her global internship experiences, and her future studies in technology policy at the University of Cambridge.
For Fatou, choosing a university wasn’t just about a degree; it was about finding a place where she could explore how technology shapes the world.
Growing up in Dakar, Senegal, she discovered coding in high school but quickly realized she wanted more than a purely technical path. “I was interested in how technology connects to people, business, and real-world challenges,” she said.
That search led her to Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar (CMU-Q), where the Information Systems program offered exactly that balance. Combining technology, business, and policy, the program gave her the flexibility to pursue different interests while building practical skills. “It’s a unique program,” she said. “You learn the technical side, but also how to apply it in meaningful ways.”
Shaping her path
Fatou tailored her studies to reflect that vision, pursuing a concentration in data science and minors in business administration and human-computer interaction. Courses such as the IS Consulting Project and strategy for high-tech products and services helped her understand how technology decisions influence markets and communities.
A defining experience came during her semester in Pittsburgh, where she worked as part of the IS consulting project course in a team supporting a CMU robotics lab, translating theory into real-world recommendations.
Global experiences also played a central role in her journey. From Vienna and Prague to Seoul and Peru, she took part in academic programs and internships that exposed her to different cultures and real-world challenges.
Leading and growing
On campus, Fatou was deeply involved in student life. As president of the African Student Association, she helped build a sense of community and create space to celebrate African culture. “Early on, I was still finding my place,” she said. “So being able to create that space for others was one of the most meaningful parts of my experience.”
She also served as president of the French Club and director of student representatives in Student Majlis, while contributing to other student initiatives. Through these roles, she developed communication, leadership, and collaboration skills alongside her academic growth.
Her achievements were recognized with several honors, including Qatar Campus Scholar, Andrew Carnegie Society Scholar, Senior Leadership Award, Alpha Iota Delta Award, University Honors, and the Qatar Foundation Excellence Award.
Looking ahead
After graduation, Fatou will pursue a master’s degree in technology policy at the University of Cambridge as a Mastercard Foundation Scholar. She aims to build a career at the intersection of technology business and policy, focusing on solutions that benefit underserved communities.
Reflecting on her journey, Fatou highlights how much she has grown. “I’ve grown in ways I didn’t expect,” she said. “CMU-Q gave me the space to explore, challenge myself, and find what I truly care about.”
Her advice to incoming students: “Always have a plan. It’s important to be intentional so you can move toward your goals, but plans can evolve. Just make sure you have something to guide you.”
