President of USQ’s largest student association steps down

For the past 12 months USQ engineering student Mohammed Aljuaid has diligently juggled study and his responsibility as President of the Toowoomba Saudi Student Association. Now, as 2012 approaches, Mohammed has decided to hand over the reins and has resigned from the office.

USQ has a thriving Saudi student population, and the Saudi Student Association which continues to grow in prominence. It is an active student body that is involved in many University events, as well as a number of Toowoomba community events.

During his time as President, Mohammed initiated a number of student and community engagement activities that have resulted in notable achievements.

‘I am very proud of everything that the Saudi Student Association achieved in 2011, especially being able to integrate with the Toowoomba Community more than ever before,’ he said.

‘I am very proud to share all the achievements and fun times with the students and community, in particular I really enjoyed the Saudi National Day that encompassed traditional Arabic dancing, artwork, food and allowed the students to appreciate their country from afar.’

Mohammed said he was honoured to be President and thoroughly enjoyed the challenges that it presented.

‘It was very rewarding to be the President of the Saudi Student Association, and I most enjoyed working with the community and forming great relationships with the university, community and both the Australian and Saudi Governments.

‘It was very touching to be able to create a community feel for the new Saudi Students to ensure that the time they have in Australia is both never forgotten and very positive for them.

‘The reason I chose to step down and allow someone else to have the experience as the president was because I am in the final year of my degree and would like to devote as much of my time as possible to my studies.

‘I also felt it was time to pass on the position to another well deserving student so that they can experience the joys, challenges and experiences of being the President Saudi Students Association.’

Mohammed moved from Saudi Arabia in 2009 to commence an engineering degree at USQ. He said he enjoys living in Toowoomba and has enjoyed sharing his culture with the university and local community.

‘I am proud with everything I share with the Students and the community, especially the Saudi national day.

‘Toowoomba is a lovely place to live; I really enjoy the atmosphere here and the diverse range of the city. For a student the city is quiet, with nice weather and very friendly people who have made me feel very welcome and included.

‘I love life at the University of Southern Queensland because it is a very well organised beautiful University with very helpful and understanding staff. I feel very privileged that I have been given the opportunity to study my degree here and I know I will remember it as one of the best times of my life.’