Experience

My Journey at LAU

Araz Keftaian ’22

Before starting my journey at LAU, I was a shy and insecure 17-year-old, who feared taking risks and new environments. Coming from a small Armenian community in Anjar, I had seldom communicated with non-Armenians, so I was not very fluent in Arabic.

When I first set foot on LAU campus to live in the residence hall, I knew that moving out of my comfort zone was going to be major transition academically and socially.

But I didn’t let those fears stop me, especially since I’d entered LAU on a full scholarship through the University Scholarship Program. I was determined to work hard, take up every opportunity, and let go of my fears.

I cannot say that the past three years have been easy. The October 17 uprising began in my first semester, followed by the pandemic, which forced us to have more than four semesters — out of our total eight — online. Through it all, the country witnessed the start of an ongoing financial and economic crisis that impacted us all.

Despite this, I can proudly say that I managed to complete more than 400 volunteering hours through different initiatives, participated in over 30 workshops and trainings, did two internships, and represented the Alice Ramez Chagoury School of Nursing at the Order of Nurses.

I also had the chance to organize and implement a community service project with my colleagues, where we gave online workshops for three different high-school students on the importance of mental health and stress reduction.

At the graduation ceremony, I received the Dean’s Inspirational Award from the School of Nursing in recognition for my dedication to the profession and service to the community, as well as the Rhoda Orme Award.

Reflecting on my LAU journey, I am proud of my achievements. I have been volunteering as an assistant nurse at a local clinic and will start my first position as a registered nurse at the LAU Medical Center-Rizk Hospital soon. I am looking forward to getting more experience and will look into a graduate degree and an academic career in the future.

My advice to future LAU students is never be afraid. Seek help if needed. Raise your voice and make a difference. You are capable of much more than you think is possible, and if you focus on the positive, good things will come your way.