Scholar Profile

Fatin Samara

Voted Most Likely To:

Graduated:
University of Puerto Rico- Cayey Campus, Class of 2002
The State University of New York- University at Buffalo, PhD

Currently Working As:
Associate Professor of Environmental Sciences, American University of Sharjah- Sharjah, United Arab Emirates

What do you love about your job?
I love that I get to teach and learn. I have always been passionate about education and this position allows me to both teach and do research. Moreover, I love the challenges that the higher education world incorporates. Working with undergraduate students who are still at the beginning of their careers and seeing the changes and growth from when they start to the time they graduate is very special. I also get to influence them in their careers and that's an amazing legacy.

What has been the most exciting part of your career so far?
Teaching in a diverse environment. The United Arab Emirates includes a mix of many nationalities in a growing country. It has been amazing to be part of the growth of the country in terms of sciences. When I started teaching, the environment and sustainability were unknown topics. As time is passing, the country is starting to put efforts in this areas. It is great to be part of this growth.

What would you tell yourself at age 18?
That the future has a lot of opportunities. I would tell myself to continue growing and learning because it is a process that never ends. I would also tell myself to never think that there are limits to what one can do, and to take all the opportunities that come your way.

How has ACS Scholars impacted your life and career?
ACS Scholars impacted my life and career in an incredible way. It encouraged me to continue a degree that was fulfilling and rewarding. As a Scholar, I was able to meet a Nobel Prize Winner (Mario Molina) who was an inspiration and now when I explain the impact of CFCs in the Ozone layer to my students, I can say I met him. ACS built my confidence by inviting me to presentations and meetings. More than anything, it made me realize that my contribution to the world matters.