Christelle Fayad is beginning the academic year as the new president of TCU’s Graduate Student Senate. Originally from Kaftoun, Lebanon, she is working towards her Ph.D. in Science Education. She is also a graduate assistant at the Andrews Institute for Research in Mathematics and Science Education.
What brought you to TCU?
I was a science teacher and wanted to pursue a PhD in science education in the hopes of studying scientific literacy and improving it in developing countries. I found that the PhD program at TCU is of high quality so I was excited to apply.
How did you get involved with the Graduate Student Senate and why?
I got involved with the Senate last year, serving as the VP for student engagement. Through that role, I got to interact with many graduate students from different programs and learn about their experience at TCU and their hopes for the future of graduate studies. This motivated me to continue my mission in the Senate. I was encouraged by my colleagues in the Senate and in my program to run for President. It was an honor to be elected and gain the trust and vote of fellow graduate students.
What GSS accomplishments are you most proud of?
I love that we got to prioritize graduate student experience this year. We got to conduct the first graduate student experience survey. The survey was very insightful and we shared its findings with the administration. We also planned family-friendly events, a collaborative tailgate event with the School of Business which was super fun, and a luncheon for first-generation graduate students.
What are your primary goals as president?
I want to provide more opportunities for professional development for graduate students whether for teaching, or research, etc. I would also love to continue enhancing communication and collaboration with the other governances on campus. Most importantly, I want to ensure that the GSS is always there for all graduate students to hear their concerns and provide them with resources.
What do you think the biggest challenge will be and how do you plan to overcome it?
The biggest challenge would be bringing all graduate students together. Everyone has busy schedules and different interests. This is why we will make sure to include a variety of events and schedules and include the Zoom option for students who do not come to campus.
What are your goals after graduation?
I love teaching, interacting with students and conducting research which makes me want to pursue a career as a college professor. Eventually, I see myself starting an international educational organization and opening a bakery!
What do you love most about being a Horned Frog?
I love the horned frog community, I got to meet people from different cultures and countries here and I made friends for life. What’s special about TCU is that it is both a place that harbors success and a happy fun environment.
More about Christelle:
A favorite food: A good falafel sandwich
Favorite spot on campus: The intercultural center
Favorite hangout off campus: Ascension Coffee- WestBend
Favorite movie: Amelie
On your playlist: Pearl Jam, Scorpions, Fayrouz
Last shows you binge-watched: Vikings; The Chair.
Hobbies: Gardening, baking, and hiking.
A professor who has had a meaningful impact on you: Dr. Hayat Hokayem, my dissertation chair, she is a supportive mentor and a role model.
Best TCU memory to date: Holding my country’s flag and walking through the court during halftime at the basketball game. It was an amazing feeling being recognized as an international student at TCU.