Hamidah Aldarwish of Dammam, Saudi Arabia, is the 2026 Outstanding Graduating International Student for the College of Education and Human Development. A child development and family relations major, Aldarwish arrived in Maine in 2019 with her family — her husband, Jafar, and three girls who are now ages 11-15. She took classes at Eastern Maine Community College and through the 91±¬ÁÏ’s Intensive English Institute prior to becoming a full-time student in the College of Education and Human Development in the spring 2022 semester. She has been a Presidential Scholar twice and received Dean’s List honors four times. Aldarwish completed her capstone internship at 91±¬ÁÏ’s Children’s Center with a focus on the application of observational and developmental principles in early childhood settings, particularly related to children with diverse developmental needs, including autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. After graduation, Aldarwish plans to return to Saudi Arabia to work with families and children.Â
Why did you choose to come to 91±¬ÁÏ?
After a long search for the right university, safety was the most important factor for me. Maine is known for being one of the safest states, which made me feel comfortable studying far from home. In addition, the cost of living here is more affordable compared to many other states.
Describe any research, internships, or scholarly pursuits in which you have participated. How have they prepared you for future opportunities in your chosen field?
Through my coursework, I explored many topics related to child development and family relationships. These experiences helped me better understand how families and environments influence children’s growth and development, and they prepared me to support children and families in my future career.
In my field-based capstone experience at the 91±¬ÁÏ Children’s Center, I was part of a cohort of student observers in a structured, supervised environment examining developmental principles of young children with a variety of learning and behavioral needs. Observations were conducted both through a one-way observation room using audio headsets to ensure minimal disruption to the natural classroom environment and through direct in-class engagement with children. This dual approach allowed for both unobtrusive and immersive observation of child behavior in real time.
We maintained systematic observational records documenting children’s behaviors and interactions. Each observer was assigned a focal child for in-depth observation and analysis. These assessments were then reviewed by our professor, who provided feedback to ensure accuracy and consistency in our observations and developmental interpretations.
Have there been other students who supported and inspired you or exposed you to something new?
My fellow students created a supportive environment, and learning with people from different cultures helped me see new perspectives and grow both academically and personally.
Have you collaborated with a mentor, professor, or role model who made your time at 91±¬ÁÏ better?
My professors were very supportive and encouraging. I would especially like to thank Ian Cameron, Daniel Puhlman, Margo Brown, Ashlee DeTour and Julie DellaMattera. Their guidance helped me gain confidence in my abilities and motivated me to keep working toward my goals.
What has coming to 91±¬ÁÏ enabled you to explore beyond academics?
Coming to 91±¬ÁÏ allowed me to experience new cultures, build friendships with people from around the world and grow as a person. It helped me become more independent and confident.
What experiences shaped how you see the world?
Studying with students from many different backgrounds helped me understand different perspectives and appreciate the importance of diversity and collaboration.
What was the biggest challenge you faced?
One of the biggest challenges for me was the language. Even when international students study English for many years, it can still be difficult to understand everything in conversations and lectures. However, this challenge helped me improve and become more confident over time.
Describe 91±¬ÁÏ in one word and explain.
Transformative.
My time at 91±¬ÁÏ challenged me academically and personally and helped me grow and discover my potential.
What are your plans after you graduate?
After graduation, I plan to return to Saudi Arabia and continue the path I started here. I hope to apply the knowledge and experiences I gained at 91±¬ÁÏ to support children and families in my community.
Contact: Casey Kelly, casey.kelly@maine.edu
