The Success Milestones Series
Some successes are not shared out of pride, but to document the impact, share the wisdom, and build a bridge for those walking the same path. In this series, I reflect on pivotal moments from my journey — from the start of university to today — not out of nostalgia, but out of gratitude and reflection.
Each milestone tells the story of a person, decision, or moment that left a mark on my consciousness and helped shape my scientific and societal vision.

First Success Milestone: When the Journey Begins with a Friend and Mentor
In the fall of 2013, I didn’t know that a simple meeting at the “Specialized Science Center” would have such a profound impact on my scientific and human journey. I entered the meeting as a representative of the first-year cohort in the biomedical engineering department, sitting at a table surrounded by students from various years, led by Mr. Mohannad Al-Kousa.
I still don’t recall the specific details of that first meeting, but I clearly remember what I left with: I didn’t just gain a mentor — I found a friend and a spiritual father to my university path.

Our recurring meetings, which blended deep scientific discussion with broad life philosophy, laid the foundation for my personal and academic vision. Beyond the philosophical dialogues, there was a practical technical side that left a clear impact: scientific electronics courses, maintenance fundamentals, compressed air systems under the supervision of Dr. Moaz Al-Khayyat, and countless lectures.

When I made the decision in 2016 to enter the academic field, his encouragement was simply a continuation of his guiding role. He supported me with his advice, knowledge network, and a spirit that opened doors not with his hand, but with his mind and trust.

What was particularly helpful was that whenever I had a topic to discuss or a question, he would either provide an answer or refer me to someone in his network who knew more. This greatly expanded my connections with intellectual and knowledgeable individuals.

The student ID photo at the Science Center represents the beginning of the journey as an academic student. The PhD certificate photo represents its end. Between those two images lies a relationship built not on mutual benefit, but on vision, commitment, and mentorship.

We recently spoke by phone. More than a decade later, his voice still carries the same paternal tone. We spoke, as if nothing had changed, about ideas, projects, and collaborations.

Lessons Learned:

• Never underestimate the impact of a first meeting.
• A true teacher not only answers but guides you to those who hold the answers.
• Having a real mentor at the beginning of your journey isn’t a luxury — it’s a necessity for anyone who wants to avoid years of aimlessness.
• “He who shows you the path has already lit half the journey.”