International students gush over WCM-Q learning experience

Several international students who have joined Weill Cornell Medicine in Qatar (WCM-Q) have shared their experiences of studying at the university and living in Qatar. Bahram Kazani felt it was great to get world class education. “I have been amazed with what Qatar has to offer its students in terms of outstanding facilities which would promote a safe and healthy environment. Qatar Foundation (QF) offers the best possible facilities at a reasonable price. As a result, students regardless of their background, can enjoy and utilise the resources to maximise their experience,” he said.“I really enjoy the different cuisines that Qatar has to offer which is why going out and trying different restaurants is something which I avidly pursue. I am also a motorsport fan so am always on the lookout for car clubs hosting racing events for the public,” he added.Hamza Rizwan, heard about the university from his father through an uncle who works at QF. “Having been in Canada most of my life, I was curious to attend a medical school in this part of the world. There were also aspirations of living alone. The major factor that decided I should come to this school was the interview - speaking with the students revealed, they enjoyed medical school. Many spoke of vibrant lives outside their studies with an infectious enthusiasm.”Reem Chamseddine, another international student, noted that she was motivated to attending WCM-Q because of the world-class education, the ability to engage with patient care in such a diverse setting, and the opportunity to partake in research with wonderful mentors. “I spend a good amount of time working on various research projects with Cornell-affiliated faculty, and that's allowed me to further explore my interests in medicine. I am also the founder and president of the Health Policy student interest group. WCM-Q provides a uniquely tight-knit, supportive community. The small student body and the welcoming culture create an environment where everyone's success is encouraged and celebrated,” she explained.Twins, Narjis Mhaimeed and Nada Mhaimeed say that WCM-Q offers an American medical degree outside of the US, while being able to stay in the comfort of the Middle East. They feel all educational institutions around the Middle East provide opportunities for growth and success, but Qatar is in a ballpark of its own. “The educational system in Qatar gives you the tools to allow you to thrive. It goes above and beyond to ensure a premium education to all its students. The opportunities offered are immense,” said the duo. “The most memorable aspects of my stay in Qatar have been being able to experience every part of it. From Souq Waqif, Katara, The Pearl-Qatar, the Corniche, all the parks, Msheireb, the farmers market, Sealine there’s just too many to name. Qatar is full of these gems dispersed throughout the country, and I have been able to experience these with all the friends I have made,” said Narjis MhaimeedNada Mhaimeed was of the view that the friends she made in Qatar will last a lifetime. "I’ve also loved that I got to experience Qatar’s growth. I am very proud to say that I have witnessed the building of the FIFA World Cup stadiums, the metro stations, Msheireb, all the little cafes that popped up at every corner, Qatar National Library, and so much more. Even though I am not Qatari, I have grown to be a part of the country and the culture,” added Nada Mhaimeed.