Duaa Ahmed Ibrahim - Digital Media Researcher "Every achievement begins with a step, and every dream is achieved with determination and hard work."

First, tell us about yourself.

I'm Duaa Ahmed Ibrahim, a graduate of Al Ain University's College of Communication and Media, majoring in Advertising. I'm currently completing my postgraduate studies in the Master's program in Digital Media. I always strive to achieve the best through continuous learning, self-development, and professional and academic commitment. I believe that every achievement begins with a single step, and every dream is realized with determination and hard work.

Tell us about your academic journey. What does Al Ain University mean to you?
My academic journey began with a first step when I graduated with a diploma in accounting in 2011. However, my dream of continuing my studies never left me, despite ten years of waiting and searching for the right opportunity. I was looking for a university that would provide me with a balance between academic quality, study flexibility, and genuine student support, until I found my niche at Al Ain University.

Thanks to its distinguished programs and extensive facilities, I was able to fulfill a long-awaited dream. I enrolled in the College of Communication and Media, specializing in advertising, and graduated with a bachelor's degree with honours.

Al Ain University was not just an educational choice for me; it was a new starting point for my academic and professional life, achieving an important step in my career. Today, I continue my path at the same university, completing my postgraduate studies in a Master's degree in Digital Media. Al Ain University is a symbol of hope and determination, and it is the academic supporter who made the impossible possible, all thanks to God's grace and the prayers of my dear mother.

What is your career experience and professional growth?                                                                                             

Combining academic study with practical experience in the same field made a significant difference in my career. My professional practice supported my studies, and my studies directly impacted my work, as tasks were carried out with greater precision and according to scientific principles. This balance between work and study helped me improve my performance and add value to my workplace through scientific discussions and the practical application of academic concepts.

Why did you choose your field of study? What are your future ambitions?
When I first began my academic journey, accounting was a choice my parents made at the time. Although I worked in this field for several years after graduating, my true passion lay in a completely different direction. From a young age, I loved design, advertising, and implementing creative ideas. I even created designs using simple programs like Word and PowerPoint, with limited resources but with great passion. During the ten-year hiatus, this passion never faded; it remained within me, pushing me toward achieving it. I developed my skills through training courses, but I realized that a specialized university degree was the foundation that would provide me with academic recognition and real professional opportunities.

From here, I decided to choose the advertising major at the College of Communication and Media at Al Ain University. It combines my love of design and creativity with my interest in writing and public speaking, creating a perfect blend that expresses my personality and ambitions.

How has studying at Al Ain University supported your professional growth?
Despite my practical experience, my studies at Al Ain University added an important academic dimension that helped me bridge the theoretical and practical aspects of my work. The university supported me by providing opportunities to participate in events and collaborate with my employer, in addition to the support of the academic staff, who played a significant role in developing my skills and resolving the challenges I faced. Al Ain University was not just an educational institution; it was a true partner in my professional development.

Do you have any volunteer or community involvement?                                                                                                         

I consider volunteer and community work to be among the noblest forms of giving that anyone can offer, and Al Ain University was a pioneer in opening this field to students. I was a passionate and proactive student in this area, participating in numerous projects and initiatives. I have participated in several volunteer and community activities, including:

Winning first place twice at the national level in the Aoun Award for Community Service; participating in the Arab Leader Camp in the Arab Republic of Egypt; qualifying with my team for the University Challenge finals with the "Ghaf" project; covering the GITEX exhibition in Dubai using mobile journalism; and making humanitarian visits to families and patients as part of university activities. All of these participations have contributed to refining my personality and expanding my social and media vision. 

What do you believe is the role of a graduate towards their university and community?                                             

A graduate is a mirror that reflects the university's image to society. It is our duty as graduates to honestly demonstrate the impact the university has had on us and to convey our positive experience. Toward society, a graduate is a messenger of knowledge and experience, and they must give back to society by utilizing their knowledge to serve both it and the nation.

Based on your experience, how can one achieve balance between personal and professional life?
Balancing between the various aspects of life is an ongoing challenge. Sometimes, studies overshadow social life, and vice versa. However, organization, setting priorities, and leveraging the support of institutions such as Al Ain University greatly helps in balancing and achieving success in various aspects of life.

Tell us about your achievements. With your experience?                                                                                              

Among the achievements I am most proud of during my studies at Al Ain University is winning first place in the Aoun Award for Community Service, organized by the Emirates Red Crescent at the national level for two consecutive years. This is a distinguished humanitarian award that reflects teamwork and excellence in community service. I also had the honour of participating in the University Challenge competition organized by the Government Communication Forum, where we qualified for the finals for our Ghaf project.

what key principles should students and graduates follow?

Education is not merely the receipt of information; it is a living experience for the student. Among the most important pillars we must focus on are: integrating theoretical learning with practical application, continuing self-development, assuming academic and societal responsibility, and achieving personal excellence before waiting for external recognition. Education is an integrated experience that requires passion, initiative, and a true investment in oneself.

A final word to the university’s graduates?
Be prepared for challenges and face them with determination and resilience. Continue to develop yourselves and achieve your dreams.