Government of Ireland recognizes CMU-Q alum for educational excellence

Farjana Salahuddin, a graduate from the Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar (CMU-Q), a QF partner university, was awarded the Government of Ireland Scholarship to further her studies at Trinity College Dublin. She is one of only 60 award recipients across all of Ireland’s higher education institutions.

She was also selected as a 2021 Education in Ireland Student Ambassador for Trinity College Dublin. An initiative by the Minister for Education and Skills in Ireland, student ambassadors share their higher education experiences in Ireland with an international audience. Salahuddin is the only ambassador chosen from Trinity College Dublin.

A graduate of the Class of 2017, Salahuddin studied information systems at CMU-Q and was active in student organizations and events. After graduation, she worked at Senseta and STA as a technology development specialist. Her work included front end design and development, including graphic design and user experience.

“After working for three years, I found that I wanted to learn more and delve deeper into user experience. I am interested in how people and technology interact, and I enjoy the creative side of technology and information systems,” she said.

Salahuddin chose a graduate program in interactive digital media at Trinity College Dublin, and applied for the post-graduate scholarship from the Government of Ireland. She feels her digital skillset was a deciding factor in receiving the scholarship. “On the application, they ask how you will contribute to the vision of Ireland. One of Ireland’s strategies is to enhance its global footprint, and I wrote that I have a lot to offer in that area through the network I have developed over the years.”

The scholarship draws applications from around the world for people who wish to study in Ireland, and Salahuddin is one of 60 who were awarded for the 2020-2021 academic year.

Although her studies are taking her to new places, Salahuddin still calls CMU-Q home. “I’m very proud to be an alum of CMU-Q. I got so much out of my CMU years, and I’m always happy to come back to the campus, to contribute, and to help and guide new students.”