Hala Awkar

General Info

What will be your most valuable contribution to your TechWomen mentorship?

Through out my four years of teaching I have mastered self-awareness and patience, I can serve as someone who can help in that particular area. I have also gained confidence and public-speaking skills when teaching in front of a full classroom - it is like having an audience everyday for 7 hours, so it is beneficial for staff meetings, I can share my ways of keeping an eye contact
and the audience engaging all the time - or almost all the time. Finally, I can teach tricks and tips on how to be independent and adaptable in any situation.

The Top Three Things I Would Like to Learn or Experience During my Mentorship

1. Laboratory astrophysics research and tools
2. How AI helps in developing and improving astronomical findings
3. Leadership in education

Mentorship Characteristic

• Attend company-wide meetings and/or team meetings
• Visit an office or attend a site-visit
• Focus on technical skills building
• Identify a short-term project I can work on at the partnering company
• Have exposure to basic industry techniques

Ideal Company Type

An ideal mentor match would be someone who is willing to communicate ethically about their working experiences and be real about all the positive and negative points about working at their company. The ideal company, however, would be a company that integrates technology and AI to explore space. The focus is one understanding our universe and other universes
as well. The company size does not matter as long as the work environment is friendly and engaging.

What are three adjectives that best describe you in the work place?

1. Creative
2. Adaptable
3. Reliable

What impact will your mentorship have on your career and professional path?

I am hoping that the knowledge and experience I will gain from my mentor will change my perspective and help me both personally and professionally. Being able to look at things from a closer lens and be part of a team that is seas apart will boost my confidence and help me believe in my career and the path I am taking no matter how difficult it gets. To be in someone else's shoes and see their work will also help me be more affectionate and motivated.

After participating in the TechWomen program, how will you leverage your mentorship experience to make an impact in your home country?

Ever since my TechGirls experience, I have been trying to create an impact in the lives of people I meet everyday. When I started teaching, this helped a lot, because the students saw me as someone to look up to, which in this case put a huge responsibility on how to set a good example and create impact in their lives. After TechWomen, I believe my responsibilities will
grow deeper, and I must try to impact not only my student's lives, but try reaching out to more ambitious future leaders, not only girls from my neighborhood, but the whole community.

Work History

Primary Professional Focus

• Educational technology
• Scientist and researcher
• Technical training

Education History