Christelle Fayad, a TCU student from Kaftoun, Lebanon, is working toward her doctorate in science education and is the new president of TCU鈥檚 Graduate Student Senate (GSS). Christelle spoke with TCU News about her experience as both a graduate and international student and shared goals for the year ahead.
What brought you to TCU?鈥�
Before coming to TCU, I received my bachelor鈥檚 in biology and my master鈥檚 in molecular
biology at an American institution in Lebanon. I worked as a science teacher, and
I wanted to pursue a Ph.D. in science education and research. I found out that TCU
had a really good program, so I applied and started in August 2022.
How did you get involved with the Graduate Student Senate and why?
I spend a lot of time on campus and wanted to get involved, so I served as vice president
for student engagement with GSS last year. In that capacity, I enjoyed working with
other grad students and learning about their programs and experiences. I applied to
be GSS president because others encouraged me, and I was elected.
What GSS accomplishments are you most proud of?鈥��
Last year, we conducted our first grad student experience survey, covering everything
from academics to social to mental health. It was one of the few surveys grad students
received, and we got good participation and insight. We learned what grad students
like and need at TCU, so we presented those to the administration and will work this
year to make those improvements. I鈥檓 also proud of the very diverse and family-friendly
events we hosted, like a tailgate and museum visit.
What are your primary goals as president?
I want to collaborate with other governing bodies on campus to strengthen our voice
for common goals. We know that TCU is growing, and grad students will play a huge
role. I鈥檇 like to see the university provide more resources to grad students for academic
and professional development, financial assistance and mental health. I鈥檇 also like
us to have more networking events for grad students to build ties to campus. A lot
are busy with careers and family and have scheduling conflicts. We鈥檒l try to host
events that suit their schedules, as well as have more diverse events.
What do you think the biggest challenge will be, and how do you plan to overcome it?
The survey told us that grad students want more opportunities to socialize, but, again,
timing is a problem, so we鈥檒l address that by having events at different times. For
example, for the next Graduate Student Appreciation Week (Oct. 28-Nov. 1), we鈥檒l have
different events every day and mainly on campus, but we鈥檙e also planning some virtual
events.
What are some of your other involvements at TCU?鈥�
I was the DEI rep for the College of Education. We host events and hear issues and
try to find solutions. I鈥檓 also on the school鈥檚 Dean鈥檚 Advisory Cabinet.
Tell us about your undergraduate experience and how it prepared you for this role.
The undergrad program at my university in Lebanon had programs similar to TCU鈥檚 and
is a highly ranked school. My master鈥檚 focused on targeted cancer therapeutics, so
when I applied to TCU, I think that made my application more competitive. I was also
awarded the STARS (stipend to attract remarkable students) award.
What are your goals after graduation?鈥��
I will work on my dissertation and plan to graduate in 2026. After that I want to
work as a professor to teach science education and research. Eventually, I would like
to start an international organization to improve science education in other countries.
STEM education can help people to develop and provide career opportunities, and someday
I want to return to Lebanon to benefit my country.
What do you love most about being a Horned Frog?鈥��
I enjoy getting to work on a program that has amazing opportunities for me to develop
academically and professionally. I get to meet people from different cultures and
countries, and I love the campus life experience.
More about Christelle:鈥�
A favorite food: Middle Eastern food
Favorite spot on campus: The Intercultural Center
Favorite hangout off campus: Trinity Park
Favorite movie: 鈥淎尘别濒颈别鈥�
On your playlist: Pearl Jam, Scorpions and Fayrouz, a Lebanese artist
Last show you binge-watched:鈥�鈥�The Chair鈥�
Hobbies:鈥疓ardening, baking and hiking with friends
A professor who has had a meaningful impact on you: Dr. Hayat Hokayem, my dissertation chair, is a supportive mentor and role model who has given me good advice and made my transition to TCU easier.
Best TCU memory to date: My first-ever football game. It was so exciting and overwhelming that I don鈥檛 remember who we played or who won! Also getting to carry my country鈥檚 flag and walking through the court during halftime at a basketball game was amazing.