October 9, 2013

For College of Nursing and Health Professions student Mahmoud Shurbaji, a “typical” day is anything but typical. His day starts with an early morning Crew practice in the chilly waters of the Schuylkill River, followed by afternoon classes in Center City, eventually ending with a few late-night meetings. In addition to being a Health Services Administration (HSAD) major, with double minors in Business Administration and Operations Management, Shurbaji is also the President of the Drexel Undergraduate Student Government Association (USGA) and a member of the Division I Crew team.

Part of what drives Shurbaji is his ability to listen, communicate, and assist his fellow peers. As USGA President, he strives to help as many students as he can. “When I achieve something, no matter if it is recognized, I feel accomplished,” Shurbaji said. He credits his accomplishments to his HSAD professors, who through their classes have taught him how to develop such leadership skills as time management and self-awareness. “As a leader, you must be aware of people’s emotions, and that is something you learn in an HSAD class,” he explained. He also acknowledges the way that his fellow peers at the College of Nursing and Health Professions have contributed to his success. “CNHP students are down-to-earth and hardworking, and these qualities have helped me stay on my path,” he added.

What is so extraordinary about Shurbaji, however, is that no matter how long and difficult his day may be, his main goal is always consistent: to help others. He is currently working on an USGA project aiming to diminish the language barrier for Drexel’s international students so that they can increase their involvement within their community. As President, Shurbaji feels a distinct sense of responsibility. He recognizes the importance of the USGA’s role as a voice for all students, and so he works tirelessly to represent them to the best of his ability. 

The HSAD major prepared Shurbaji well for his leadership positions and the program continues to support his many undertakings as a Drexel student. “HSAD is diverse. I admire the faculty; they are role models and I try to be more like them. They motivate me,” Shurbaji continued.

Often times, it can be hard to balance academics and extracurricular activities. While he credits the unparalleled help of faculty mentors and peers, he also urges students to make personal schedules and to set lofty goals, strategies that help him manage his own many endeavors. “Challenges keep you motivated. Don’t jump in too deep right away, but always challenge yourself,” he advised. Shurbaji leads by example, relying on his own advice as he juggles rigorous classes, crew practices, and USGA events.

The one word that Shurbaji would use to describe his student experience is simply rewarding. “No matter how hard the task is, when you don’t let people down, it’s just rewarding,” he concluded.