Impact Stories

We recently heard from Hayl Al-Salehi (BA Psychology ’19) who is a PhD student at the University of Western Ontario in Canada. Hayl attended AUB, “a transformative journey that reshaped my destiny,” on a MEPI scholarship. Here is his story: “The MEPI scholarship at AUB was the beacon that illuminated my path. When I first heard of MEPI, a prestigious initiative by the US Department of State, during a meeting with the YES alumni cohort, I was intrigued but unaware of the profound impact it would have on my life. Little did I realize that AUB and the MEPI community would become my sanctuary for four transformative years, and the vibrant city of Beirut would forever etch itself in my heart.

My academic odyssey began in 2015 when I was bestowed with the honor of a fully-funded scholarship to AUB. As a young Yemeni, having witnessed the tumultuous waves of conflict since 2011, I landed in Lebanon with a heart brimming with dreams and a spirit yearning for knowledge. My initial intent was to immerse myself in the world of biology. Yet, the diverse and enriching liberal arts education at AUB beckoned me to explore further. From the mysteries of the human mind in psychology to the intricate dance of political debates, philosophy, and sociology, my academic compass constantly shifted, guiding me toward my true calling.

Between 2015 and 2019, AUB’s vibrant campus life offered me a plethora of experiences. I dived into university-supported clubs, took part in enlightening workshops, attended global conferences, and participated in innovative hackathons. Each experience was a steppingstone that molded my character and broadened my horizons. The friendships I forged during that time weren’t just fleeting college bonds; they became lifelong connections, my second family.

Being a MEPI scholar was not just about academic excellence; it was a lesson in humanity. The program instilled in me an undying passion for volunteerism and community service. The Center for Civil Engagement and Community Service became my playground where I learned the joy of giving back.

The ties with AUB and MEPI remained strong even after I graduated in 2019. The campus, with its timeless beauty, always welcomed me back, and the AUB alumni connection ensured that I remained an active part of the community. The wisdom, skills, and values I imbibed as an AUB MEPI scholar became the foundation for my subsequent endeavors – from my academic pursuits at the Lebanese American University (LAU) as a MEPI TLG scholar in international affairs to my noble journey as a humanitarian worker.

Today, as I sit in one of North America’s esteemed institutions, I look back with gratitude. AUB and MEPI didn’t just educate me; they transformed me. Beirut, with its rich tapestry of culture and history, will forever remain my second home and AUB, the cornerstone of my life’s most cherished memories and achievements.”