2024 Spring Graduates

6/27/2024

The KGSP would like to congratulate this year’s spring graduates on their accomplishments and welcome them into the Program’s impressive alumni network. All 66 graduates demonstrated unbreakable resolve and dedication through their engagement in studies; enrichment opportunities including internships, research experiences, and professional fellowships; and community building. These young graduates, many of whom joined the Program at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic and faced unprecedented challenges, now begin their post-graduate and professional journeys, equipped with the knowledge and skillsets to make a positive and lasting impact on the world.

2024 Spring Graduate Spotlights:

^{Image 1: Dema Alhazmi, Georgia Institute of Technology (Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering).}

Dema Alhazmi graduated from the Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech) with a Bachelor of Science in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering. In summer of 2021, Dema participated in research involving the development of dual catalysts for oxygen evolution at the King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST). There, she gained hands-on experience with developing and executing experimental projects and writing scientific articles. Dema also interned in the Research & Development department at Aramco Services Company in Boston in the summer of 2023, where her work in enhancing hydrocarbon reservoir performance reinforced her chemical engineering skills in synthesis, analysis, and applications design.

“From the very beginning, the [KGSP] promised an extraordinary journey, and it delivered exactly that,” Dema said looking back on her experience in the Program. “The support system here is unparalleled, guiding and encouraging you every step of the way, no matter what decisions you make.” Her time at the KGSP’s annual convocations remain her fondest memories, having the opportunity to meet students from diverse backgrounds and academic interests. Dema plans to continue her studies in chemical and biomolecular engineering at the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST).

^{Image 2: Jana Alghamdi, Rice University (Computational and Applied Mathematics).}

Jana Alghamdi graduated from Rice University with a B.S. in Computational and Applied Mathematics. The connections she formed with members of the KGSP community have been invaluable throughout her undergraduate journey. “These connections became a vital support system, allowing me to explore different parts of the US and build lasting friendships that will carry on not only in the master's program but for future endeavors because KGSP students are dominating a lot of sectors.” Despite the initial set of challenges that the pandemic posed, Jana said the assistance she received from the KGSP and her Advisor helped her engage in extracurricular activities and enrichment opportunities. She joined Rice University’s Muslim Student Association (MSA) and the Middle Eastern and North African Student Association (MENA SA) to build community.

In the summer of 2022, Jana worked as a data analyst and financial planning intern at Retina Consultants of America in Dallas, Texas where she grew her coding and analysis skills. In 2023, she participated in the KAUST Summer Internship Program (KSIP) under the guidance of Professor Diogo Gomes. She also mentored new KGSP students as a Peer Student Guide in 2023.

Jana plans to pursue a master’s degree in KAUST’s new Technology, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship program. “This program perfectly aligns with my future aspirations because I have always wanted to combine my STEM background and technical skills in computing, applied mathematics, machine learning, and various engineering projects with a business and entrepreneurial mindset,” Jana said. “Having completed a business minor and engaged in small entrepreneurial ventures, I am eager to start my own venture.”

^{Image 3: Lena Bokhari, University of Colorado, Boulder (Chemical Engineering).}

Lena Bokhari graduated from the University of Colorado, Boulder with a B.S. in Chemical Engineering. “I aspire to discover and develop innovative sustainable energy solutions,” Lena said on her plans for the future. “The KGSP has a vast and dynamic network which has enabled me to connect with leading experts in the renewable energy field. This network is a crucial resource, offering invaluable insights and fostering collaborations that drive my pursuit of energy solutions.” At KAUST, Lena hopes to pursue a master’s degree in chemical engineering as she works toward her goals of developing energy solutions. “The field's versatility and interdisciplinary nature allow for impactful solutions to critical environmental and societal challenges.” To current and future students, Lena implored the importance of utilizing the KGSP network and pursuing a diverse range of opportunities.

^{Image 4: Mohammed Alwelyee, Boston University (Biomedical Engineering).}

Mohammed Alwelyee graduated from Boston University with a B.S. in Biomedical Engineering, with a concentration in Nanotechnology. Throughout his undergraduate career, Mohammed has participated in a number of competitive and enriching opportunities. In the summer of 2022, Mohammed was involved in a 10-week Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) program in the Engineered Living Materials Lab at Northeastern University under the supervision of Professor Neel Joshi. There he worked on developing a system that utilizes the natural metabolism of microbes to drive reversible macroscale changes in pH-responsive hydrogels. This work culminated in his first research publication. During summer 2023, he worked as a consulting intern in the Health Industries business unit at PwC. “I got the chance to work with a great team of consultants on introducing value-based payment to the Saudi healthcare system in alignment with the Saudi Vision 2030.” In October 2023, Mohammed was awarded the prestigious Rhodes Scholarship to undertake fully funded post-graduate studies at the University of Oxford.

Starting in October 2024, Mohammed will begin his doctorate degree in Biomedical Engineering at Oxford, focusing on engineering 3D scaffolds for tissue repair and regeneration. “Following my degree, I aspire to establish one of Saudi Arabia's first healthcare startups, aimed at helping the country meet the goals outlined in the Health Sector Transformation Plan (HSTP),” Mohammed said. “The KGSP has been instrumental in supporting me in pursuing these goals. The program provided me with a robust academic foundation, invaluable research opportunities, and a network of mentors and peers who have continuously inspired and guided me.”

^{Image 5: Sondos Quqandi, University of Maryland, College Park (Physics).}

Sondos Quqandi graduated from the University of Maryland, College Park with a B.S. in Physics. Sondos started her KGSP journey as a Foundation Year (FY) student at the University of Texas at Austin. “By joining KGSP and studying in the United States, I have accomplished and experienced what seemed very far in high school,” Sondos said. In summer 2021, Sondos participated in an undergraduate research program at UMD where she learned about experimental physics and developed her skills in working with devices and programming, and quantum computing. In the summer of 2023, she was part of CERN Summer Student Program held in Geneva, Switzerland, where she gained hands-on experience in a big-scale experimental research institution.

Through her time as an undergraduate, Sondos has found her passion in the field of quantum science and technology, and she hopes to pursue a master’s in Applied Physics at KAUST, which will prepare her for a PhD program in quantum science. On advice to current students, Sondos said, “Engage in the many opportunities provided by both your university and the KGSP, and build your sense of responsibility, leadership, and resilience.”