Striver Education

We caught up with Enas Al-hadidi shortly after this College of Health and Human Services (CHHS) student was featured in the Washington Post article “Strivers Not Schemers”.  Al-hadidi embodies the true spirit of Mason and CHHS- determined, resilient, and prepared to help change the world.    

Enas Al-hadidi
CHHS School of Nursing 2019

How did you react to the Strivers Not Schemers headline in the Post? Did that resonate with you?

When I first read the headline of the post  I smiled, because honestly that’s the exact words I would have used if I had to name the article.

What are words that describe your Mason/CHHS experience?

I would describe my Mason/CHHS experience as:

  • Eye-opening
  • Challenging
  • Helps students grow (not only academically, but also helps students become strong in different areas in life, such as how to build self-confidence and self-esteem).

What do you think differentiates Mason/CHHS from other colleges or nursing programs?

Besides Mason being one of the [high value, low cost] schools in the DMV area, they have fabulous professors, that put their time and energy to teach and provide the best education to their students. Most importantly they believe in their students. 

What is your post-graduation plan? If you are joining the workforce – where will you be working and in what role?

My post-graduation plan is to work at the INOVA Fairfax Hospital as a registered nurse. However, in the future I hoping to return to Mason to earn my DNP degree.

How has CHHS/School of Nursing prepared you for your career and your future?

Mason has prepared me for my future career in many different ways. It helped by providing me with the opportunity to see how it feels to care for patients in the best hospitals in the DMV area. Mason has helped me by building my confidence by providing the best simulation lab, which has allowed me to practice hands-on skills to ensure patient safety before going to the real world.

What specific skills have you learned here at Mason to prepare you?

I have learned many different skills at Mason such as oral communication, leading and working in teams and individually, leadership, organization, and most importantly being able to work under pressure.

Is a Mason/CHHS education a good return on investment?

Yes, “Mason is worth your investment!”  Mason’s education is a great investment because you not only get an affordable tuition in the top ranked national universities, but you also get the best professors that are willing to put their personal time to help their students succeed to ensure strong post-college career.

What else should prospective students know about Mason/CHHS?

I would like to personally congratulate all prospective students because they have made the right decision to [apply to and] attend Mason. Mason makes sure students’ voices are heard and the right education is given to them.