Dr. Susan Tabbaa Nachawati
What fears or anxieties did you have about going to college?
One of my main anxieties about going to college was the possibility of being the only female in a large class. I worried about feeling isolated or not being taken seriously, especially in subjects where women are underrepresented. It made me question whether I would be able to find a supportive community or feel comfortable speaking up in class.
Another concern was having to attend evening classes. I was uneasy about walking around campus at night, especially if the area wasn’t well-lit or if I had to travel alone. Safety was a big concern, and I also worried about how late classes might affect my energy levels and ability to stay focused.
- Ph.D. Claremont Graduate University
Make it a priority to attend every lecture—being present not only helps you absorb the material but also shows your professors that you’re committed. Submit every assignment on time, even when it feels overwhelming; consistency builds discipline and keeps you on track.
Most importantly, never give up on your dreams. There will be challenges, moments of doubt, and times when you feel like you don’t belong—but remember, you do belong. You’re paving the way not just for yourself, but for others who will follow in your footsteps. Stay focused, seek support when you need it, and believe in your ability to succeed.
I enjoy staying active through hiking and jump-roping, which help me clear my mind and stay energized. I also love reading, which allows me to explore new ideas and perspectives.
If I were stranded on a desert island, the three things I’d love to have with me are:
- My blanket – for comfort, warmth, and a little piece of home. It would help me feel safe and cozy, even in an unfamiliar place.
- An iPad – loaded with eBooks, music, offline games, and maybe even some downloaded movies or educational content. It would be my all-in-one entertainment and learning hub (assuming I could keep it charged!).
- A weighted jump rope – to stay active, relieve stress, and maintain a sense of routine. Plus, it’s compact and versatile for fitness.
I worked as an Electrical Engineer in the Central Bureau of Statistics. Then as a Biomedical Engineer at a newly built hospital (I was responsible about blood analysis and heart devices), I came up with an idea that would save the hospital a lot of money in purchasing ink for the devices.
In the United state, I worked as Arabic and Islamic Studies pre and elementary school teacher. I worked as a web developer and content manager.
I love teaching a lot, since l share my knowledge with my students and they will work at different locations. So my impact is not in one location.
Programming classes, computer architecture, Programming the IoT kit (Arduino), Data visualization.
I have been married to my husband for approximately 35 years now. We have three children. One of them is a student on campus.
