Karachi, A former Dean’s Fellow and Lecturer at Habib University has shared a heartfelt reflection on their enriching experience at the institution, emphasizing the profound impact it had on their personal and professional growth. After leaving Habib University one and a half years ago to pursue an MSc in Product Service Systems Design at Politecnico di Milano, Italy, the Dean’s Fellow expressed a deep sense of gratitude and nostalgia for their time at the University.

According to Habib University, the Dean’s Fellowship Program offers a unique opportunity for young academics and researchers, providing them with the freedom and support to explore and develop their teaching and research interests. The former Fellow recounted designing ten different courses during their tenure, six of which they taught personally. The other four courses were developed as part of the revamping of the Communication and Design Program (CND) curriculum at the University. This opportunity allowed them to offer CND-specific courses and also cater to students from various disciplines through the Playground, a collaborative space designed for ideation and design thinking.

The Fellow highlighted the diversity of the student body as one of the most enlightening aspects of their experience, presenting both a challenge and an opportunity in designing course content that was engaging for all students, regardless of their familiarity with design.

One of the most notable aspects of their tenure at Habib University was the supportive academic environment. The Fellow expressed admiration for the accomplished yet humble faculty, particularly mentioning their mentor Dr. Anzar Khaliq. They credited Dr. Khaliq for invaluable guidance in publishing research, applying for scholarships, and developing new approaches to course content and student engagement.

Their time as a Dean’s Fellow was transformative, enhancing their academic portfolio and skills. Involvement in various university activities, including serving in the Faculty Senate, contributed significantly to their personal and professional development.

The experience at Habib University not only prepared the Fellow for their ongoing academic pursuits but also cemented their passion for teaching. As they prepare to commence their PhD after completing their MSc in July 2024, the skills and experiences gained at Habib University continue to influence their academic journey.