“Reflection” Posts

Showing 28 “Reflection” posts

  • Desert Hoya

    How I Embraced Uncertainty at Georgetown – Then Found My Path through Research in Greece and Indonesia

    When I was a first year student, I used to worry that my academic interests were too scattered to fit neatly into the structured world of university research. It wasn’t about the variety of academic opportunities offered at Georgetown, rather the uncertainty of how to navigate them from an interdisciplinary point of view. Even so, I wasn’t sure whether these interests would translate into tangible opportunities. 

    A person sits on a wooden fence holding a large Greek flag, looking into the distance with mountains, trees, and a partly cloudy sky in the background.
  • Desert Hoya

    How GU-Q’s Travel Programs Turn Studying Into an Adventure

    Travel has always been one of the most powerful ways to learn about history, about the world, and about ourselves. There’s something deeply transformative about stepping into a place shaped by a history different from our own, immersing ourselves in its culture, and seeing firsthand the realities we’ve only encountered in books or lectures. That is why I have come to love traveling, not just as a hobby, but as a way to grow.

    A person sits on a large yellow frame with Table Mountain, Cape Town, South Africa written on top. Table Mountain and city buildings are visible in the background under a clear blue sky.
  • Desert Hoya

    70 Days Until Graduation: How Choosing Georgetown Changed Everything For Me

    Four years ago, I made a decision that changed my life. Leaving my high school in South Africa, I took a leap of faith to pursue a degree in International Politics at Georgetown University in Qatar. Today, as I count down the final 100 days to graduation, I find myself reflecting on how this journey has reshaped my worldview, career aspirations, and sense of purpose.

    Two people sit on stage in white chairs, having a discussion. They are in front of a blue Georgetown University Qatar backdrop, with flags and a podium nearby. A clock above shows the time as 18:18.
  • Desert Hoya

    Why the Women’s Center might be Georgetown’s Best Self-Care Secret

    If Georgetown is a masterpiece of campus design, then the Women’s Center is the hidden Easter egg you didn’t know you needed. Tucked away in a cozy corner near the student wellness team, and the Oasis Room (aptly named because it’s basically a spa day for your soul), the Women’s Center is the holy grail of self-care. And no, you can’t sit with us – unless, of course, you’re a woman.

    Three women are sitting and talking in a cozy living room with a blue couch, bookshelves, a glass coffee table, and a laptop displaying a video call. One woman is standing, holding a book and smiling.
  • Desert Hoya

    My First Week as a History Major at GU-Q

    After a year and a half of attending University, I thought I finally understood what it meant to be a Georgetown Student, to study politics and strive for academic excellence in a challenging environment. While those things stand true, there are many things left to be desired.

    A stack of four library books on a small round table, focusing on topics like Gaza, Hispanic-American history, and African-American archives, with a blurred library setting and green plant in the background.
  • Desert Hoya

    Catching Up: Academia, Adventures, and Community Connections

    It's been a while since we last connected, and I must admit, I've missed sharing my experiences with you. The past semester has been a whirlwind of adventures, both on and off campus. As I sit here reflecting on the memories, I can't help but wonder how you've been and what incredible stories you might have to share.

    A group of people in winter clothing pose on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, holding a dark banner. An airplane is visible in the sky to the left. The day is overcast.
  • Desert Hoya

    What Makes Home Special: My Summer in South Africa

    I’m now back! And ready to talk to you about the exciting adventures coming up during my summer break Leaving Doha for Pretoria after a thrilling and eventful first year in college was bitter-sweet. It made me realize that I had fallen in love with my new home – Qatar.

    A large statue with outstretched arms stands in a green park, facing a city skyline. People walk nearby, and a South African flag is in the foreground. The sky is blue with scattered clouds.
  • Desert Hoya

    A Letter from a Georgetown Senior

    I am excited to apply the world-class education and professional preparation that I have gained during my time at university. But before I transition into this new stage of my life, I wanted to reflect on the last four years and share some wisdom with you as you are about to embark on this journey. 

    A woman with long dark hair, wearing a white jacket over a brown top, sits and smiles at the camera on a paved surface at night.