The Student Leadership Program of the AUS Office of Student Affairs held an inspirational lecture entitled "Leadership for Impact: Experiences, Lessons, Reflections," by Bilal Ahmed Maarouf, a senior student majoring in mechanical engineering, on December 17. Maarouf served as a peer leader in in the 2011-2012 academic year. Due to his outstanding leadership qualifications, he was selected to serve as a team leader for two consecutive years.

Part of the AUS Student Lecture Series, Maarouf's lecture reflected his personal opinion on significant attributes that modern leaders should acquire to leave an impact on their communities. His conclusion stated, "To lead your society with impact, you should first lead yourself."

According to finance freshman Omar Ben Seddik, "The lecture by Bilal Maarouf was simply brilliant. His reception was special and made all the people in the hall eager to know more about him and his leadership journey. It was very interesting since we learned the true meaning of what a leader is, how beneficial and advantageous the leadership program can be and how citizens of different countries can form one peaceful community. He represented the AUS Student Leadership Program well and motivated me to be more involved and active in it."

"The AUS Student Lecture Series encourages our students to share their life experiences and personal achievements with the AUS community to motivate, inspire and educate. They also greatly challenge and expand the worldviews of students and community members through discussions and dialogue about current local, regional and global issues," said Dr. Moza Al Shehhi, Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs.