What led you to meet with a mentor in the MIR program? 

I met Mentor Josh Ingersoll through the Brooke Owens Fellowship, and he informed me of the Mentors-in-Residence program.

I met with him in order to gain support navigating the internship search as an international student. He taught me how to frame and consolidate experiences, skills, jobs, and previous experiences. He has an extensive network in industry and academia and wants to share his resources/network with students.  

I also met with mentors Sandy Magnus, Niya Perry and Gary Weissel. 

They gave me insight on how I can use the skills learned in college to determine which jobs would be a good fit, and they gave me perspective on what to anticipate in my first full time position post-graduation.  

What were some of your key takeaways from the mentoring meeting? 

• Go in prepared for the mentor meetings
• Tailor questions for the mentor based on their background
• Let the conversation flow
• Be respectful of the mentor’s time
• Expect to learn a lot (even beyond what is on the mentor’s bio page)

Would you recommend other students meet with a mentor? Why? 

Yes, the mentors want to help. They have been in our shoes. They can help students envision where their careers are headed. Help you build your network.  Mentors can also help you get out of your shell. Help you demystify the intensive process it takes to land an internship or job in industry. Give you a better understanding of the different roles in the industry. Inform your choices. 

Fun Facts about Dunsin 

• Hometown: Doha, Qatar
• Member of Space Generation Advisory Council (SGAC)
• Favorite food is Baklava