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My professional journey in higher education began over 15 years ago, driven by a passion to support learning, foster inclusion, and create spaces where students and faculty alike could thrive. This path has allowed me to blend research, teaching, and leadership in impactful ways, continually seeking to make a meaningful difference in the lives of students and the educational institutions I serve.
PhD in Educational Planning Policy & Leadership in Higher Education Administration
• Master’s in Linguistics
• GPA: 3.9 / 4.0
• MA in Teaching Methodology & Curriculum Design
• GPA: 3.8 / 4.0
In my recent role at the Mason School of Business, I collaborated with the Center for Online Learning's Director of Program Management & Instructional Quality. Together, we evaluated and refined the center’s graduate programs, ensuring that online courses were thoughtfully updated for the new academic year. This role deepened my expertise in curriculum design, instructional quality, and the strategic evolution of online learning, aligning academic programs with modern pedagogical needs.
Over the years, I have dedicated countless hours to guiding students through the complexities of academic life as a coach and mentor. Through individualized coaching sessions, I have empowered undergraduates to develop effective study habits, manage their time efficiently, and pursue their academic and professional goals with confidence. This role has allowed me to be both a source of support and a catalyst for growth, watching students transform challenges into successes.
Working alongside Dr. Janise Parker, I contributed to the CARE Lab’s Social-Emotional Learning for All initiative by developing and writing the literature review component of the research. This experience reinforced my dedication to promoting social justice through educational interventions that address the emotional and social needs of diverse student populations. It also expanded my research capabilities in identifying key literature, synthesizing findings, and supporting evidence-based approaches to inclusive learning.
My teaching journey has spanned diverse roles and settings, driven by a dedication to fostering inclusive and engaging learning environments. As an Adjunct Faculty member in the ESL Department at the University of The Potomac in Chicago, IL, I have designed and taught courses tailored to various academic and professional needs. These include intermediate and advanced academic preparation, Business English, Public Speaking, Business Communication, and English for Specific Purposes courses. Expanding further into practical applications, I have developed and delivered courses on Digital and Global Marketing, Business Plan writing, Entrepreneurship, and Pitch Deck presentations, in addition to providing comprehensive TOEFL and IELTS preparation. My commitment to experiential learning has also led me to design and conduct field trips and experiential learning experiences (ELE), bridging classroom concepts with real-world contexts.
In my role as a Teaching Assistant for Arabic language at Benedictine University, I supported the Department of Language and Literature by preparing course materials for all levels of Arabic under faculty guidance. I independently designed and conducted language labs, created and taught Egyptian dialect courses, and led cultural activities to deepen students' understanding of Arabic and Islamic traditions. Beyond classroom instruction, I offered revision and tutoring sessions, graded assignments, and provided dedicated office hours, fostering a supportive environment for student success.
Receiving the Fulbright scholarship to study and engage in educational research marked a pivotal chapter in my career. This experience immersed me in cross-cultural educational settings, deepening my understanding of international student experiences and the diverse factors influencing their academic journeys. It fueled my ongoing commitment to creating inclusive environments that support all learners, regardless of background.
Earlier in my career, as an Adjunct Faculty member in the Department of English Language and Literature at The International College for Languages in Cairo, Egypt, I taught a range of courses from Writing Composition 101 and 102 to senior-level Grammar, Linguistics, Literature (including novels, poetry, and literary criticism), and Translation. I developed and conducted English language labs, assessments, group activities, and discussions, while also managing department events such as the annual graduation ceremonies for three consecutive years. These experiences have honed my ability to connect with diverse student populations, promote academic growth, and cultivate a dynamic and inclusive classroom environment.
Discover how our personalized coaching has empowered students and professionals to achieve their goals. From overcoming challenges to mastering skills, read firsthand accounts of life-changing experiences. Your success story starts here!
Interested in collaborating on a research project, educational initiative, or learning more about Shaimaa’s work? Please feel free to reach out!