Graduate Student Spotlight | Ahmed Alghamdi

I am international graduate student from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. I came to United States of America to pursue my graduate education as it will help me achieve my future career goals.

I have a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Saudi Arabia, and I am currently in my last semester of Master of Science in Management Information System /IT project management certificate at Hood College.

During my graduate career, I worked at the Hood Graduate School for over a year as a student administrative and recruitment assistant.

I also volunteered for The Saudi Arabian cultural mission to the United States in Washington D.C., and was president of the Saudi student’s association at Hood College.  

I like always to make the most of my time and add value to an organization. This strategy has helped to improve my soft skills, increase my professional network, and create new opportunities for me.   

Hood College regularly offers academic and cultural events that introduced me to great friends from around the world.

Participating in Hood College events has helped to extend my professional network and my perspective. I have always made an intentional effort to attend on-campus events, and I encourage students to do so as well.

The Graduate School hosts many cultural events such as international festivals, Saudi National days, Iftar dinner during Ramadan, international educational week, and cyber security lectures. The Graduate School Association always has an open door for creative and active students so get involved!

Looking for job opportunities is not difficult but you need dedication and effort to land your dream job. My main advice is to start very early.

Here are some tips I can share as an international student:

• Attend all career and volunteer fairs on campus, exchange contact information with recruiters, and contact them via LinkedIn.
• Build a strong resume and develop additional skills. Look for jobs on campus, summer internships, and volunteer opportunities. Fredrick has many startups including companies that regularly seek interns and volunteers.
• Get your CPT during your study “internship“- it is an effective passageway to your OPT job.
• Develop your professional network and always check with them.
• Hood's Career Center has a wonderful staff that will help you locate professional opportunities and review your resume and cover letter. Be sure to visit them!

What I like most about my Management Information Systems graduate program is the combination of information technology and business management courses.

Studying MIS has enhanced my technical, organizational and management skills. Understanding management practices associated with information technology is in high demand, and it will make you valuable in today’s business market.

You also have access to a variety of career paths and job titles with an MIS degree. If you like business and technology, then the MIS graduate program is a great fit!

I would like to thank the Hood College community for a remarkable two years during my graduate career. I have truly enjoyed my academic journey, and I appreciate the international student support both before and during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Inspired by Ahmed's story to #GoFurther in your education to boost your career? Learn about Hood College’s graduate programs, including the MIS (Management Information Systems) by clicking here.