CEN’s popular shadow program offers future engineers a firsthand experience of university life

The American University of Sharjah (AUS) College of Engineering turned an ordinary school day into an unforgettable moment with its Engineering Shadow program held during the spring and fall semesters of 2024. For 55 high school students from across the UAE, it was a chance to dive into the dynamic world of engineering. Paired with their AUS student mentors, the high school students experienced the hustle and bustle of campus life, sat in on real classes, participated in labs, explored various campus facilities and chatted with professors about future careers, getting a true taste of life as an AUS engineering student. These visits were packed with eye-opening moments, new friendships and a sneak peek into the exciting world of engineering.

Dr. Fadi Aloul, Dean of CEN, highlighted the program’s role in helping students bridge the gap between high school and university learning.

"At AUS, we are committed to providing young minds with meaningful learning experiences that ignite their passion for engineering. The Engineering Shadow Mentorship Program allows students to step into the world of engineering and experience its real-world applications firsthand. By engaging with our faculty and participating in university-level discussions, high school students gain a deeper understanding of how engineering shapes the future," he said.

Dr. Rana Sabouni, Associate Professor in the Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering and program director, emphasized the importance of mentorship in guiding students toward STEM careers.

"This program is a journey that gives high school students a taste of university life and the exciting challenges of engineering. They not only experience academic rigor but also develop critical thinking skills essential for future success. Seeing their enthusiasm and curiosity grow throughout the program is truly rewarding," she said.

For Alisha Jamal, a Grade 11 student at Scholars International Academy, the experience was both engaging and intellectually stimulating.

"Each session challenged me to think critically, immersing me in a learning environment that pushed my understanding to new levels. Additionally, I loved how warm and community-like the campus felt. Everyone was welcoming, creating an atmosphere of collaboration and support that made me feel instantly at home. This sense of community, combined with the rigorous academics, made the experience incredibly rewarding," she said.

The Engineering Shadow Mentorship Program is part of CEN’s Discover Engineering initiative, which offers a variety of opportunities for high school students considering careers in engineering. Competitions, workshops and mentorship opportunities are also part of the initiative.

For more information about the Shadow Mentorship Program, visit www.aus.edu/cen/engineering-shadow-program.