Dr. Lina Hejjawi's Journey of Education and Harmony at AUS

In a genuine interview, Dr. Lina Hejjawi, a seasoned educator and Senior Instructor at the American University of Sharjah (AUS), shares her transformative journey blending language education and music. With a commitment to community outreach, her contributions extend beyond the classroom, making her an inspiring figure at AUS.

Dr. Hejjawi begins by introducing herself and highlighting the integral role that AUS has played in her life since 2002. "After moving to Sharjah with my family, AUS became more than just an academic institution; it has become our dear home and community," she warmly expresses. In her 15 years at AUS, Dr. Hejjawi has devoted herself to various roles, currently serving as a Senior Instructor and Manager of the Outreach Program at the Achievement Academy (AA).

TESOL: Shaping Education and Community Engagement

Reflecting on her Master's degree in TESOL, Dr. Hejjawi emphasizes the profound impact it had on her career, especially in managing the AA Outreach program. "The MA TESOL has been immensely beneficial to my career in education," she explains. The program equipped her with a comprehensive understanding of language acquisition theories and practical teaching strategies. As the manager of the AA Outreach Program, Dr. Hejjawi's TESOL background allowed her to design tailored language programs that catered to the specific needs of diverse communities.

"The multicultural environment at AUS and the TESOL program’s focus on intercultural communication prepared me to navigate and appreciate the diversity within our outreach initiatives," she adds. Her TESOL foundation became instrumental in fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment.

Celebrating 15 Years: Highlights and Challenges

Dr. Hejjawi expresses gratitude for the honor of receiving an award for 15 years of dedicated service at AUS. Reflecting on her journey, she shares, "One of the most significant highlights has been witnessing the continuous growth and development of the university." Challenges, including adapting to the evolving landscape of higher education and integrating new technologies, became opportunities for learning and innovation.

"My role has expanded significantly throughout my 15 years at AUS," she notes. Embracing leadership roles, Dr. Hejjawi actively participated in decision-making processes, mentored new colleagues, and contributed to shaping the university’s vision and mission.

She also added that “Receiving this award is a meaningful acknowledgment, not just of my individual accomplishments, but also a testament to the supportive and collaborative environment fostered by AUS. I am grateful for the mentorship I’ve received throughout my 15 years at AUS. Looking ahead, I am excited to continue my journey here, contributing to the institution’s legacy of excellence in education and furthering its impact on academic and local communities”.

Harmony of Disciplines: TESOL Meets Music Education

With a recent DMA degree in Music Education from Boston University, Dr. Hejjawi reflects on the transformative experience that enriched her professional journey. "The integration of these two disciplines has broadened my skill set and profoundly influenced my approach to education," she shares. The correlation between TESOL and Music Education enhances communication skills, emphasizing precision and creativity in expression.

She explains that language and music both rely on nuanced communication, requiring learners to understand and express ideas with precision and creativity. “The research component of my DMA program has encouraged a reflective and evidence-based approach to education. This methodology aligns seamlessly with the principles of TESOL, emphasizing the importance of continuous assessment, adaptation, and responsiveness to the evolving needs of learners,” she said.

"My dual expertise in TESOL and Music Education has given me a comprehensive view of education as a dynamic and interconnected process," she elaborates, highlighting the integration of language and music in her teaching methods.

Shaping the UAE National Music Curriculum

As the Head of the committee developing the National Music Curriculum of the UAE, Dr. Hejjawi details the key considerations and challenges. Emphasizing relevance, inclusivity, and effectiveness, the committee aims to inspire a new generation of musicians and elevate the standard of music teaching. The curriculum places importance on cultural sensitivity, diversity, and continuous professional development for educators.

Cultural Preservation and Collaborative Impact

A memorable project for Dr. Hejjawi involved preserving the musical heritage of the UAE. "Being part of a project that preserved the musical heritage of the UAE was incredibly rewarding," she reflects. This experience underscores the power of teamwork, cultural sensitivity, and the positive impact of a well-designed curriculum on altering a nation’s educational landscape.

Explaining her experience further, Dr. Hejjawi mentioned that she felt more inspired and motivated to achieve the curriculum’s overarching aim, which is to provide students with a high-quality, culturally meaningful project on music education experience.

Fostering Learning and Future Trends

Dr. Hejjawi shares advice for students and aspiring educators, emphasizing lifelong learning, flexibility, and community ties. She notes an increasing emphasis on digital literacy in language enhancement and anticipates a shift towards greater inclusivity in music education. Educators, she suggests, should embrace innovation, stay current, and encourage inclusive teaching strategies.

“In the realm of music education, I anticipate a shift towards greater inclusivity, with the curriculum embracing a diverse array of musical genres, cultures, and voices. Additionally, there is a likelihood of increased interdisciplinary connections in music education, particularly with subjects like science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM). This interdisciplinary approach not only heightens the relevance of music education but also offers students a holistic learning experience,” Dr. Hejjawi highlights.

Contributing to AUS's Growth

As an alumna deeply committed to AUS, Dr. Hejjawi envisions contributing to the university's growth through continued mentorship of students. "Mentoring is a crucial aspect of shaping students' academic and professional journeys," she emphasizes. Dr. Hejjawi is also eager to explore opportunities to collaborate with faculty, participate in research projects, and support initiatives that enhance students’ overall educational experience.

In closing, Dr. Lina Hejjawi's journey at AUS is a symphony of education, community engagement, and cultural preservation. Her dedication and passion serve as an inspiration for educators, students, and the entire AUS community.