Alum Hasan Al Mana speaks about life as a biological sciences grad

Alumnus Hasan Al Mana, who graduated from the Biological Sciences program in 2015, spoke at CMU-Q’s Tartan Talks series about his experiences after graduation. He works at Sidra Research and Medical Center as a graduate associate in the molecular infectious disease lab, which diagnoses diseases like malaria, flu, hepatitis and tuberculosis. The session was moderated by Annette Vincent, assistant professor of biological sciences.

What is unique about CMU-Q students in the workplace?

CMU-Q graduates stand out in the workplace. They are good at public speaking and have strong presentation skills, and they are sharp, smart and quick to learn new things.

Why should a student do research?

I strongly encourage students to get involved in research while they are still undergraduates. Troubleshooting within a research project builds character, as well as an understanding of the whole process. Research teaches the discipline of the scientific process and builds the skills of piecing things together and solving problems.

Why should a biological sciences student study calculus and physics?

There are two main reasons. The first is that you may not need these skills as biologists in the workplace, but calculus and physics teach logical thinking, which is extremely useful in any career you pursue. The second reason is that you never know where you may end up. My plan after graduating was to work in the lab, but I ended up in a managerial position. That’s when other skills come in handy

What advice do you have for students?

My advice is to explore other fields so you can learn what you really want. You never know where you might find your niche. I always wanted to be a doctor, but I changed my mind once I did an observership at Hamad Medical Center, shadowing a doctor. That life was not for me, so I continued as a biological sciences major at CMU-Q instead of pursuing medical school.

Do you plan to pursue future studies?

Yes, I am planning to do my masters at the end of this year and then pursue a Ph.D. later. But right now, I want to take this opportunity to learn as much as I can, maybe make mistakes and learn from them, and then pursue higher education. I want to gain work experience.

What should students do now to prepare for their career life: Make the most of the resources that you have right now; professors, classmates, courses, and research and internship opportunities. Explore as much as you can. Make mistakes, and learn to pick yourself up. This is the time to mess up and grow stronger from it.

Read more about CMU-Q’s Biological Sciences program.